New method to identify previously overlooked instability at some volcanoes
The results provide finer detail of volcanic flank motion.
The collapse of unstable volcanoes prompts landslides, one of the significant dangers of volcanic eruptions.
The large volcanic eruption indicates a flank of the unstable volcano, and there could be a collapse.
In a new study, Penn State Scientists suggests a more sensitive time-series method to detect these mountains’ long-term movements. The technique uses satellite images to identify previously overlooked instability at some volcanoes.
Utilizing the time-series technique, the scientists discovered surface deformation related to flank motion at Pacaya, an active volcano in Guatemala, from 2011 to 2013 when the volcano was mostly quiet and expanded, paving the way to an ejection in 2014. Past work had not recognized flank motion during this time.