In 59, serious riots broke out in the amphitheater of Pompeii, involving residents of the city and visitors from Nuceria. These clashes resulted in a significant number of deaths and injuries. The scale of the violence reached the ears of Emperor Nero, who responded by banning gladiatorial exhibitions in Pompeii for a period of ten years. As a further measure, he exiled the organizers of the event, including Livineius Regulus.

In 62, a powerful earthquake caused substantial damage to the city. According to Tacitus, "much of the city was destroyed by the earthquake." Following this event, restoration work was undertaken but was not yet complete when Mount Vesuvius erupted. The city presented temples and public places in a state of ruin, and several crews of workers were busy repairing damage to private homes. This situation could be due to the devastation caused by the earthquake of 62 or to efforts to remedy previous damage caused by smaller tremors before the eruption. In Pompeii, several buildings still retain plaques honoring wealthy citizens who contributed their own money to fund repairs.