Kilauea, active Hawaiian volcano, could erupt like a ‘stomp-rocket toy,’ new study suggests

Kilauea, active Hawaiian volcano, could erupt like a ‘stomp-rocket toy,’ new study suggests

Scientists may have discovered the cause behind the unique explosive eruptions observed at Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes globally, according to a recent study published in Nature Geosciences.

Kilauea, situated at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, exhibited a series of explosive eruptions in 2018, resembling a “stomp-rocket toy” where lava was forcefully expelled from the crater. These atypical eruptions, reaching heights of up to 30 feet, resulted in the destruction of over 600 properties that year.

Lead researcher Josh Crozier, a geologist from Stanford University, highlighted that the explosive eruptions deviated from the typical triggers for such events, suggesting a collapse of the magma reservoir as the underlying cause. This collapse led to a sudden increase in gas pressure within the chamber, resulting in the explosive eruptions observed.

The study utilized a combination of seismic and geodetic instruments to monitor ground inflation around the magma reservoir, alongside infrasound measurements to detect changes in air pressure. The findings shed light on the formation of hazardous atmospheric plumes consisting of hot gas and rock particles emitted by the volcano, posing risks to aviation activities and human health.

Crozier emphasized that while similar explosive mechanisms may exist in other volcanoes worldwide, the likelihood of future eruptions resembling the 2018 events at Kilauea within the next decade is minimal. However, understanding the dynamics of plume formation is crucial for forecasting potential hazards to residents in proximity to volcanic regions.

The research underscores the importance of studying and predicting volcanic activity to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of communities living near active volcanoes.

Source: ABC Audio.