UK issues a new travel alert, advising caution for Italy-bound travelers amid rising volcanic risks following recent seismic activity near Naples.

The British Foreign Office has recently revised its travel guidelines for Italy, just in time for the May half term. Travellers are cautioned about potential volcanic hazards following a significant seismic event near Naples this past Monday.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has highlighted the presence of multiple active volcanoes in southern Italy, notably updating emergency procedures for both Vesuvius and the Phlegraean Fields. This region has seen ongoing seismic activity, including several tremors in 2024.

The agency has also issued guidelines for UK citizens in Italy in the case of a volcanic eruption, urging them to adhere to local authority directives. Travelers are advised to consult the Italian government’s recommendations regarding volcanic emergencies.

The Italian Civil Protection Department provides specific protocols for dealing with various volcanic dangers, such as lava flows, explosive projectiles, and landslides. Detailed guidance is accessible online.

This update follows Naples experiencing its most severe earthquake in ten years, which occurred on Monday. The quake, with a magnitude of 4.4, originated at a depth of approximately 1.6 miles and was felt as late as 8pm local time (6pm GMT), as reported by the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV). The event led to numerous aftershocks.

The earthquake affected the area around the Phlegraean Fields caldera, located between Naples and Pozzuoli and near the iconic Mount Vesuvius. Over 150 seismic events were detected in this region from Monday evening into early Tuesday.

Furthermore, the UK Foreign Office reminds travellers that minor seismic events are common in Italy and advises consulting the Italian Civil Protection Department’s website for safety information. Checking the FCDO’s website for current travel advisories is also recommended before any trip.