Recent seismic activity, increased gas emissions, and shifting terrain suggest this long-dormant supervolcano may be stirring. With a violent history of cataclysmic eruptions, experts are monitoring developments closely. Scientists are now delving into what’s happening beneath the surface and what it could mean for the millions living nearby. If the volcano erupts, the consequences could ripple far beyond Italy — potentially affecting the entire planet.
What Is Campi Flegrei?
Campi Flegrei, or the Phlegraean Fields, is an enormous volcanic complex located near Naples. Unlike typical volcanoes, it is a supervolcano — a caldera capable of global-scale eruptions. Over centuries, this vast crater has become densely populated, with towns and cities now spread across its floor. Its previous eruptions reshaped the land and altered human history. Today, a resurgence of volcanic unrest has scientists and authorities on high alert. Given its size, location, and destructive potential, Campi Flegrei ranks among the world’s most dangerous volcanoes.
Rising Seismic Activity Raises Alarms
In May, a 4.4-magnitude earthquake — the strongest in the region in four decades — rattled the Phlegraean Fields. It followed more than 3,000 smaller quakes recorded in just six months. This level of seismic activity is highly unusual. Experts believe the tremors are caused by shifting magma beneath the surface. While not every quake signals an impending eruption, the intensity and frequency of this swarm are impossible to ignore.
Gas Emissions Hit Record Highs
Another concerning development is the spike in gas emissions. Scientists report daily releases of 4,000 to 5,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide — an extraordinary volume for a volcano that’s been largely quiet for centuries. As magma rises, it releases more gas. This uptick is a major red flag, suggesting magma is inching closer to the Earth’s surface.
Crust May Be Cracking Under Pressure
Researchers are also observing a transition in the Earth’s crust beneath the caldera — from gradual bending to cracking. These fractures can serve as direct pathways for magma to reach the surface. This shift marks one of the clearest warnings yet and reinforces growing fears that an eruption could be approaching.
Millions at Risk Near Naples
The threat isn’t confined to remote wilderness — the Campi Flegrei caldera lies adjacent to densely populated areas like Naples and Pozzuoli. Millions of residents live within the potential danger zone. If an eruption were to occur, the damage from lava flows, toxic gas, and volcanic ash could be devastating. Authorities are under pressure to prepare and implement emergency plans to protect residents from a potential disaster.
History Offers Clues to What Comes Next
Campi Flegrei’s history underscores its power. Approximately 40,000 years ago, it unleashed one of the largest known eruptions on Earth — an event that may have contributed to the extinction of Neanderthals in Europe. Its last eruption in 1538 formed Monte Nuovo in just a few days. These past events provide vital insights for predicting future risks and underscore the supervolcano’s explosive potential.
Ground Uplift Suggests Magma Movement
Since 2005, scientists have observed the ground around Pozzuoli rising by nearly five feet — a process known as bradyseism. This uplift occurs when magma and gases accumulate beneath the surface, pushing it upward. Far from harmless, this phenomenon is yet another sign that the volcano is becoming increasingly active.
Potential for Worldwide Impact
If Campi Flegrei erupts, the effects could reach far beyond Italy. Volcanic ash clouds could spread across Europe, grounding flights, damaging agriculture, and disrupting daily life. Just as the 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora led to global cooling, a similar event here could cause a drop in global temperatures, threaten food supplies, and trigger widespread economic consequences.
Monitoring a Restless Giant
While no one can predict exactly when the next eruption might occur, scientists continue to monitor the supervolcano around the clock. With the help of satellites and ground-based sensors, they track every tremor and gas release. This data is vital for early warnings and emergency planning. Though the timeline remains uncertain, preparedness is key.
An Uncertain Future Beneath the Surface
Campi Flegrei is no longer sleeping peacefully. With tremors intensifying, gases rising, and the ground shifting, signs point to an increasingly restless supervolcano. Scientists agree: this ancient crater has the power to alter the course of history in a single eruption. As they remain vigilant, so too does the world — reminded once again of nature’s unpredictable and awe-inspiring force.
