A new research strategy detailed in the journal Communications Earth & Environment has the potential to significantly enhance volcanic eruption forecasting by accurately pinpointing the three-dimensional locations of magma or gas within a volcano”s conduits.
Over an 18-month period, scientists closely monitored the Oldoinyo Lengai volcano in Tanzania. Their research revealed two distinct types of seismic tremors: one originating from approximately five kilometers beneath the surface and the other occurring near the top of the volcano.
This particular volcano is remarkable for its unique type of magma, which is notably cooler and more fluid than that of other volcanoes. The average temperature of the magma at Oldoinyo Lengai is around 550 degrees Celsius, in contrast to the typical temperature range of 650 to 1,200 degrees Celsius found in most other volcanoes.
The findings from this study could lead to improvements in eruption forecasts, offering vital information that may help in disaster preparedness and response for communities living near volcanoes.
As scientists continue to refine these monitoring techniques, the hope is that more accurate predictions can be made, potentially saving lives and reducing the impact of volcanic eruptions on surrounding populations.
