Campi Flegrei, Macedonio (Ingv): "If there was an eruption we would understand it sooner"

The INGV reassures about the situation in the Campi Flegrei. Giovanni Macedonio, a geophysicist at the Vesuvian Observatory of the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), provides reassurances about the situation in the Campi Flegrei following yesterday's seismic swarm.

Macedonio - in an interview with Repubblica - explains that "while the risk of eruption is relatively low, the uplift of the ground and the seismic swarms are signs that the volcano could become dangerous."

The geophysicist emphasizes that "the Phlegraean Fields are constantly monitored very carefully. Through the use of satellites and GPS, even the smallest ground deformations are detected."

Additionally, "researchers measure the temperature and composition of the water and gas escaping from the ground, but have not noticed any changes in the last ten years."

Macedonio explains that "if there were a change in the scenario and the volcano went into crisis, it would be very likely to be noticed in advance. A significant difference between Campi Flegrei and other volcanoes like Etna and Stromboli is that the lava tubes of Campi Flegrei are plugged and covered by layers of rock. This would make an eruption less sudden and allow more time to prepare."

 The last eruption of the Phlegraean Fields dates back to 1538

The geophysicist also emphasizes that "collective memory tends to focus on Vesuvius, which erupted in 1944, but that the Campi Flegrei had their last eruption in 1538. Despite this, volcano monitoring in the region is extremely careful and constant, ensuring greater safety for the local population."

In conclusion, Giovanni Macedonio outlines "a relatively calm situation for the Campi Flegrei. Although it is important to carefully monitor volcanic activity, at this time no alarming circumstances have been detected that could indicate an imminent eruption."