POZZUOLI – “Dad I don’t want to die” a child said as he tearfully looked around. A few moments earlier the third powerful earthquake had sown panic in Pozzuoli. People running in the street, the doors of houses left open to run to a safe place. Even on the street, however, no one feels safe due to the constant explosions and the earth that trembles under their feet. The faces are tense, there are many tears. Next to the “four spouts” fountain, in Piazza della Repubblica, one of the many tender images: a mother holds her two little girls close to her, with all the strength she has. The tension is palpable, like the sense of helplessness that everyone has in common. “I felt helpless seeing my little daughter clinging under the table screaming mommy mommy.”
SICKNESS – After the 3.9 quake at 9.46pm there was an escape from the houses. In Via Roma an ambulance was called to assist some elderly people. Others were helped out of their homes by their neighbors. All this happened while other tremors shook the whole of Pozzuoli, no area excluded. From Solfatara to via Napoli, from Licola to Monterusciello, Toiano, via Campana, everyone is on the sidewalks, on the walls, in the courtyards, in the squares. Many, many will sleep in cars.
FEAR – There are also several buildings damaged, where residents were forced to leave. The escape from Pozzuoli is spontaneous, from where one escapes towards quieter areas. Those who have a second home have already left, for the others operations are underway to set up four reception areas. Something that hadn’t happened for 40 years. «These tremors are the strongest ever, in the eighties they were not so strong» says Don Antonio, 87 years old, sitting in Piazza della Repubblica. At 11.30pm the earth trembles again, while Pozzuoli prepares to experience its longest and darkest night.
