Open AccessThe Unexpected Awakening of Chaitén Volcano, Chile
Author(s) -
Carn Simon A.,
Pallister John S.,
Lara Luis,
Ewert John W.,
Watt Sebastian,
Prata Alfred J.,
Thomas Ronald J.,
Villarosa Gustavo
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
eos, transactions american geophysical union
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.316
H-Index - 86
eISSN - 2324-9250
pISSN - 0096-3941
DOI - 10.1029/2009eo240001
Subject(s) - volcano , lahar , lava , geology , volcanic ash , volcanic hazards , earth science , physical geography , geography , geochemistry , pyroclastic rock
On 2 May 2008, a large eruption began unexpectedly at the inconspicuous Chaitén volcano in Chile's southern volcanic zone. Ash columns abruptly jetted from the volcano into the stratosphere, followed by lava dome effusion and continuous low‐altitude ash plumes [ Lara , 2009]. Apocalyptic photographs of eruption plumes suffused with lightning were circulated globally. Effects of the eruption were extensive. Floods and lahars inundated the town of Chaitén, and its 4625 residents were evacuated. Widespread ashfall and drifting ash clouds closed regional airports and cancelled hundreds of domestic flights in Argentina and Chile and numerous international flights [ Guffanti et al. , 2008]. Ash heavily affected the aquaculture industry in the nearby Gulf of Corcovado, curtailed ecotourism, and closed regional nature preserves. To better prepare for future eruptions, the Chilean government has boosted support for monitoring and hazard mitigation at Chaitén and at 42 other highly hazardous, active volcanoes in Chile.