A huge volcano in the middle of Europe which hasn't been active since 1538 could be set to eupt again, creating 100ft high tsunamis and filling the sky with dark ash and sulfur. Experts say the crust of Camp Flegrei near Naples in Italy is weakening, which could mean an eruption is likely.
According to research published in the journal, Communications Earth & Environment, molten rock and volcanic gases would be launched high into the atmosphere, potentially plunging the planet into a lengthy global winter.
Despite the site being inactive for such a long period of time, a recent rise in the number of earthquakes in the area - more than 600 in April alone - has left scientists concerned, reports The Mirror.
An evacuation plan is in place, which would see people moved away within three days, either by their own transport or buses, trains and boats. Nearby Pozzuoli is currently on yellow alert.
Local Francesco Cammarota told the Guardian: "One day it will just go off."
Discussing the study, which was carried out by experts at Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) and University College London (UCL), lead author Professor Christopher Kilburn (UCL Earth Sciences) revealed: "Our new study confirms that Campi Flegrei is moving closer to rupture."
The pressure of magma beneath the surface has lifted the area of Pozzuoli almost four metres in the last 70 years.
Scientists are optimistically cautious that a huge-scale eruption isn't inevitable. For that to happen gases would need to build up faster than they can escape, whilst magma would need to be able to move at rapid speed through the crust where a crack has formed.
Researcher, Stefano Carlino, explained: "It's the same for all volcanoes that have been quiet for generations. Campi Flegrei may settle into a new routine of gently rising and subsiding, as seen at similar volcanoes around the world, or simply return to rest.
"We can't yet say for sure what will happen. The important point is to be prepared for all outcomes."
