A Massive Supervolcano in Italy is at Risk of Erupting Again. Scientists are urgently investigating whether recent signs indicate an impending catastrophic event.
The Phlegraean Fields, a vast supervolcano near Naples, Italy, is showing alarming signs of potential reactivation.
The Solfatara Crater, one of the most active areas, has been continuously emitting more gases since 2005, drawing attention from both scientists and local residents.
What Makes the Supervolcano So Dangerous?
Ash clouds and gas emissions from a volcanic eruption can cover the globe, causing catastrophic climate disruptions – (Photo: REUTERS).
With carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to burning 2,273.05 cubic meters of gasoline daily, this area is sending strong signals that deserve serious attention. Research led by Gianmarco Buono from the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology highlights a concerning increase in emissions from the Solfatara Crater.
Each day, 4,000 to 5,000 tons of carbon dioxide are released, with up to 80% originating directly from underground magma. The remainder results from reactions between extremely hot underground fluids and calcite rocks.
This increase in activity has prompted scientists to urgently investigate whether magma is moving closer to the surface.
Supervolcanoes like the Phlegraean Fields can produce eruptions thousands of times more powerful than typical volcanic events. Ash clouds and emissions from such eruptions can envelop the globe, resulting in devastating climate disruptions.
The Phlegraean Fields last erupted violently 40,000 years ago, marking it as a geological “time bomb.”
A Reminder of Earth’s Instability
This region is not only emitting gases but also experiencing earthquakes and significant ground deformation, indicating underground changes. These signs align with the increased activity levels recorded since 2005.
In 2012, authorities raised the volcanic alert level from green to yellow, signaling an increased threat level.
Experts emphasize the necessity of differentiating between emissions caused by magma movement and those resulting from natural reactions among rocks. This critical distinction can be decisive between a false alarm and an evacuation that could save many lives.
The Phlegraean Fields also remind us of Earth’s inherent instability. Although not every sign of volcanic activity leads to disaster, the risks are significant, and the world is watching.
Scientists continue to observe and wait to see whether we are approaching another catastrophic eruption or if this restless volcano will quiet down in the future.
