November 23, 1980 Earthquake: Avellino, Potenza, Caserta, Naples, Italy

The earthquake had a magnitude (Ms) of 6.8 to 7.0 with a focal depth of 20 km. The area of severest shaking (Modified Mercalli Intensity X) was bounded by San Angelo del Lombardi, Calitri, Pescopagano and Calabritto. The shock caused damage as far east as Potenza, north to near Ariano Irpino, Avellino and Nappoli, and south to Capaccio.

There were three main shocks, each with epicenters in a different place, within 80 seconds. The largest shock registered a peak acceleration of 0.38g with 10 seconds of motion greater than 0.1g. The three main shocks combined produced 70 seconds of shaking greater than 0.01g. Thus the shaking was severe and lasted a long time.

The area hardest hit by the earthquakes covered 27,000 sq km, with a population of six to seven million people, or just under 10% of the area and population of the country. Except for Naples and Salerno, it is primarily agricultural.

As of December 12, 1980, casualties amounted to 12,360, comprising 3,114 dead, 7,671 injured, and 1,575 missing.

(above from reference #1069)

Reference #1053 lists over 3000 people killed, about 1900 missing, 7750 injured, 250,000 homeless, and extensive damage.

Reference #1250 lists 4689 killed, 7700 injured, 400,000 homeless, $20,000 million damage.

Reference #1232 lists 4580 deaths, $10,000 million damage.