Rising concerns over potential volcanic activity at Campi Flegrei have prompted increased monitoring as the area experiences unprecedented ground uplift and seismic activity near Naples, Italy.
Recent measurements show the volcano’s surface is rising at an alarming rate of 36 centimeters annually, equivalent to 14.2 inches, according to recent volcanic monitoring data.
The situation has already impacted local communities, with 11 people injured and multiple buildings evacuated following recent earthquakes. In just the past week, 183 earthquakes with magnitudes up to 2.6 have been recorded in the area.
Scientists are closely monitoring the situation through various methods. “A permanent automatic infrared (IR) station was installed at Solfatara crater” to track thermal changes, offering crucial data about the volcano’s activity.
The region’s geological history reveals significant changes. “Over the past 150,000 years, there may have been as much as 750 meters of subsidence within this graben,” highlighting the area’s dynamic nature.
Current monitoring shows that “The uplift has been focused on the anticline whilst the syncline is a location for magma upwelling,” indicating ongoing geological processes beneath the surface.
While experts continue to monitor the situation, predicting an exact eruption timeline remains challenging due to the complex nature of volcanic systems. The potential impact on Naples and surrounding areas could be severe, with possible ash fall and climate disruption if an eruption occurs.
Local authorities and scientists maintain constant surveillance of the volcano’s activity, with particular attention to seismic patterns and ground deformation that might indicate imminent volcanic activity.