In November 1980, a significant seismic event occurred in southern Italy, specifically in the Irpinia region. The earthquake measured 6.9 on the moment magnitude scale, an upgrade from the Richter scale, which better captures the energy released. The epicenter was located near Sant'Angelo dei Lombardi, and the tremors affected a wide area, including regions such as Campania and Basilicata. The earthquake was notable for its high Mercalli intensity rating of X, signifying extreme damage. The towns most severely impacted included those in the province of Avellino, where many structures were either damaged or completely destroyed.

The aftermath of the earthquake revealed a tragic landscape of collapsed buildings, particularly in areas with older masonry structures. Emergency services faced challenges in rescuing individuals trapped under rubble due to the scale of the disaster and the condition of the infrastructure. Housing, hospitals, and schools were devastated, which complicated rescue and recovery efforts. In addition to the immediate loss of life, the local economy was severely impacted as businesses were forced to close and the region faced a long process of rebuilding.

In the wake of this disaster, various national and international aid organizations mobilized to provide assistance, highlighting the importance of solidarity in times of crisis. The government of Italy was also prompted to undertake more stringent building codes and earthquake preparedness measures in response to the high number of casualties and structural failures. These reforms aimed to mitigate the risks associated with future seismic events.