Researchers have a stern warning for officials: A volcano just nine miles from Naples, Italy, may be ready to erupt.
The Independent reports presumed magma flows, tremors and activity that has been monitored for decades has led some to believe the area of Campi Flegrei should prepare for a remarkable event that would affect nearby populations as well as air traffic.
The publication quotes Christopher Kilburn, Director of the UCL Hazard Centre, who explains in Nature Communications: "Further unrest will increase the possibility of an eruption…It's imperative that the authorities are prepared for this."
That report has some startling revelations for the town of Pozzuoli, which remains at the center of the eight-mile-wide caldera. It has seen a rise of about three meters since 1950. There have also been a remarkable number of tremors through the decades.
The report explains: "Some 26,000 micro-earthquakes, or volcano-tectonic (VT) events, have been recorded across the central zone of the caldera during the current unrest, about 80% of which have been located at depths between 1 and 3km."
Thus, the population in the area should be on watch for what could be a devastating eruption.
The Independent reminds Naples is homes to almost a million residents while 360,000 people are spread out across the transom of Campi Flegrei.
The last time the area suffered a tremendous eruption was in 1538. The report explains the latest activity is consistent with what could be another major event: "The last occasion of such behavior occurred during the century before the caldera's only historical eruption in 1538. The current unrest is consistent with a reactivation of the magmatic system after 412 years."
The port city of Pozzuoli is more than a location of awesome beauty; it is home to some unique artifacts. As ReidsItaly.com explains, it boasts the "world's best preserved Roman amphitheaters." The Macellum di Pozzuoli is described as an ancient Roman marketplace that dates back to the second century.
Of course, Naples remains one of the more beloved destinations for those heading to Italy on holiday, as it's festooned with ancient sculptures, mosaics and relics.
Far more important than these prized assets are the people and visitors that surround the area.
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Lower on the list of concerns, but one that is a very real possibility, is the disruption to airline travel that would occur throughout the region. The Independent reminds of a similar set of circumstances that already played out in 2010 when Iceland's Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted. That particular event saw some 10 million travelers affected in the form of delays and cancellations to their respective flights.
A year later, Iceland's Grimsvötn volcano erupted with far less effect on the region-although Keflavik Airport was forced to close temporarily.
While Italy's southern region may be safe from a similar event unfolding for decades, there is enough evidence for some experts to declare the time is now for caution and preparation.
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