Volcanic eruption on the horizon? What Albania needs to know

One of Europe’s most dangerous volcanoes, located not far from Albania, is showing alarming signs of increased activity. Experts have raised the alarm about a possible eruption that could have major consequences not only for the region but beyond, triggering a chain reaction affecting climate, air travel, and the daily lives of millions of people.

This concerns the Campi Flegrei volcano, located near Naples, Italy. Unlike traditional volcanoes, Campi Flegrei is a “supervolcano” with a destructive power many times greater. It is currently in a "waking" phase, according to Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, which has recorded a significant increase in seismic activity and ground swelling in the area.

Risk for Albania and the region

Since Italy is very close to Albania and surrounding areas, a major eruption of this volcano could directly impact the climate, air pollution, and flights in the region. Volcanic ash could reach Albanian airspace in just a few hours, affecting public health, agriculture, and air travel.

“A major eruption of Campi Flegrei is not just an Italian issue — it is a matter that could affect the entire Mediterranean and beyond,” said a researcher from the University of Naples.

What Do the Experts Say?

Scientists are divided between two scenarios: one predicts a small eruption that could be relatively easily controlled, while the other warns of a massive eruption that could have global consequences, including a drop in temperatures in the northern hemisphere due to ash blocking sunlight.

For this reason, Italian authorities are monitoring every ground movement in real time and have prepared evacuation plans for about one million people living above this “ticking time bomb.”

Is the world prepared?

Major volcanic eruptions have had catastrophic impacts in the past. The eruption of Mount Tambora in 1815 led to the “Year Without a Summer” in many parts of the world. A similar scenario from Campi Flegrei could cause severe consequences for the global economy, food supply chains, and daily life.

Experts call on the international community to cooperate in building better early warning systems and strengthening preparedness for natural disasters.

“KORÇA BOOM”