Dissecting the August 2012 Paroxysmal Eruption: Advances and Challenges in Monitoring Open System Activity at Tungurahua Volcano, Ecuador

Abstract:

Tungurahua volcano (5023 m) is an andesitic stratovolcano that looms more than 3 km above the surrounding population centers. Since reactivation in 1999, Tungurahua has been in a relatively open system state characterized by low-level strombolian and vulcanian activity, short periods of repose (days to months), and more violent paroxysmal eruptions capable of producing hazardous pyroclastic flows, subplinian columns, and voluminous ash falls. Transitions from low-level to more hazardous activity can be abrupt and make monitoring challenging. Tungurahua is actively monitored by the Instituto Geofisico (IG) in Quito, in collaboration with national and international partners, using data from broadband seismoacoustic stations, DOAS gas spectrometers, tiltmeters, an ash fallout quantification network, satellite thermal and gas data, and reports from local observers. Here, we highlight an example of the current …

Año de publicación:

2013

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Fuente:

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