Polistena
The Messina earthquake of 1908: an unprecedented catastrophe
The Messina earthquake of 1908, also known as the Southern Calabria-Messina earthquake, is considered one of the most catastrophic earthquakes of the 20th century. Occurring at 5:20:27 am on December 28th, the earthquake severely damaged the cities of Messina and Reggio Calabria within 37 seconds, causing the death of half the population of the Sicilian city and a third of that of the Calabrian city. It is the deadliest natural disaster in Europe in terms of casualties and the largest natural disaster to ever hit Italian territory in historical times.
Seismographic recordings
On the night of the earthquake, seismographs recorded the occurrence of a major event in a location located in Italy. However, no precise information on the specific location of the earthquake was available, only traces marked by pens on seismic observer charts, which researchers quickly began analyzing and interpreting. Telegraphs began to click, while technicians waited to obtain and exchange information.
Causes of the earthquake
According to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, the earthquake was caused by a large, blind normal fault with a low angle of dip to the SE, mainly located off the Strait of Messina between plates. Its upper projection intersects the earth's surface on the western, Sicilian side of the Strait. In 2019, researchers from the University of London identified the active fault responsible for the earthquake as the Messina-Taormina fault, located off the coast of Sicily and running along the Strait of Messina.
The effects of the earthquake
The Messina earthquake caused a destructive series of tsunamis that approached and then moved away from the coast, with waves several meters high. The seismic event caused the destruction of entire urban areas, including the most densely populated neighborhoods of Messina and Reggio Calabria. Hundreds of buildings collapsed in both cities, while others were seriously damaged. The victims of the earthquake were mostly people who lived in residential areas vulnerable to seismic shocks, including women, the elderly, and children.
The Italian response to the earthquake
Italy responded to the Messina earthquake of 1908 with a vast effort of relief and assistance. The government instituted a medal for organizations and individuals who acquired the title of public merit on the occasion of the earthquake. Medical and humanitarian assistance to survivors was provided by medical and paramedical personnel from all over Italy. The Italian army sent troops to maintain public order and organize the distribution of essential goods.
In conclusion, the Messina earthquake of 1908 was one of the greatest natural disasters of the modern era, with serious consequences for the life of the local population. However, the Italian response to the event demonstrated the ability to mobilize and cooperate to cope with emergencies.
