Is a supervolcano awakening in Italy? A global threat is looming around Naples!

The increase in seismic activity in recent months in the area of the famous Campi Flegrei supervolcano in Italy is causing serious concern among scientists and local authorities. According to the Daily Mail, in May 2025, the strongest earthquake recorded in the region in the last 40 years - a magnitude 4.4 tremor - occurred. This further revived claims that the supervolcano is reviving activity.

According to reports, over the past six months, more than 3,000 earthquakes have been recorded in the Campi Flegrei area. This figure is considered a dangerous signal in scientific circles. Because this extremely large and dangerous volcano last erupted in 1539 and has been relatively quiet since then.

Campi Flegrei is an ancient caldera near the city of Naples, which was formed as a result of volcanic eruptions that occurred over several thousand years. If the activity of this supervolcano increases today, it could have catastrophic consequences not only for Italy, but also for the whole of Europe, but also on a global scale.

Why are scientists worried?

According to officials, a possible eruption of Campi Flegrei poses a direct threat to the approximately 4 million inhabitants of Naples and its surrounding area. Earthquakes, ash plumes, lava flows and explosions would have a negative impact not only on local but also on international aviation and climate systems.

• A volcanic eruption could pollute the air over a large part of Europe.
• Ash plumes could disrupt flights and disrupt transport links.
• Substances released into the atmosphere could block sunlight, causing a global cold snap known as a “volcanic winter.”

What do volcanologists say?

National and international geophysicists insist that this activity is not always a sign of disaster. According to their estimates, the probability of a major eruption of the volcano in the current decade is from 1 to 3 percent. But even any small activity of a supervolcano requires serious monitoring.

The Italian government has also begun serious action on this issue. Special education and evacuation plans for the population living around Naples are being updated. Scientific laboratories are also constantly monitoring the pressure, temperature and gas emissions under the volcano.

The possible awakening of the Campi Flegrei volcano is once again reminding humanity of the natural forces of the Earth. No matter how unlikely it is, indifference to it can lead to disaster. While scientists and governments continue to monitor this situation, our duty is to be vigilant and aware of this reality.

Photo: Springer Nature