In May, a powerful 4.4-magnitude earthquake shook the Phlegraean volcanic fields. It was the strongest quake in 40 years. Over the past six months, more than 3,000 smaller quakes have rattled the region. Clearly, this isn’t random. Scientists believe these tremors are signs of magma shifting beneath the caldera. Although not every quake leads to an eruption, this swarm is far too intense to ignore. Consequently, experts are paying close attention to every new tremor.
Gas Emissions Surge to Record Levels
Besides the shaking ground, there’s another troubling sign at the volcanic area: record-high gas emissions. Every day, scientists measure 4,000 to 5,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide being released. This is a huge amount for a volcano that has been mostly quiet for centuries. As magma in the Flegrean volcanic region moves closer to the surface, more gas escapes. Therefore, this surge of gas is a clear warning that the Campi Flegrei supervolcano might be preparing to erupt.
Crust Cracking Under Pressure
Researchers are also seeing signs that the crust beneath the caldera is shifting from bending to cracking. This is a major shift. Cracks in the rocks create easy paths for magma to rise. As a result, scientists believe the Italian supervolcano could be inching closer to an eruption. This is one of the clearest warnings yet for those tracking the volcanic region near Naples. After all, every crack makes it easier for magma to break through.
A City in the CrosshairsNaples and nearby towns like Pozzuoli sit directly next to the Campi Flegrei volcanic area. Millions of people live in this region. Unlike volcanoes in remote areas, this one threatens cities full of homes, schools, and hospitals. If the supervolcano erupts, lava, ash, and deadly gas clouds could quickly devastate these communities. Therefore, local authorities know they must have emergency plans ready for the Naples volcanic area.
