Scientists uncover reasons behind decades of unrest at zombie volcano in Bolivia
- Scientists have studied the Uturuncu volcano, which has shown signs of unrest for decades.
- Using advanced imaging techniques, researchers identified the cause of the volcano's activity stemming from magma movement beneath.
- Their findings indicate a low likelihood of an imminent eruption, despite potential risks for local populations.
A dormant volcano, named Uturuncu, located in the Andes mountains of Bolivia, has puzzled scientists for years due to its unusual signs of unrest, including earthquakes and gas emissions. Researchers have conducted extensive studies since the 1990s, noting a significant ground deformation pattern resembling a sombrero, characterized by rising land at the center of the volcanic system with surrounding areas sinking. This deformation has shown central uplift rates of up to 0.4 inches per year, raising concern about a potential future eruption after an inactivity period of over 250,000 years. Collaborative efforts from scientists in the U.S., U.K., and China employed advanced seismic techniques and geophysical methods to investigate the volcano's internal structure, likening their imaging approach to medical imaging practices used in healthcare. Through these observations, researchers ascertained that the rumbling and deformation were linked to the movement of magma and gas beneath the volcano. They highlighted that Uturuncu sits above the largest known magma body in the Earth's crust, indicating a significant potential for future eruptions. While researchers acknowledge the risk of widespread damage should an eruption occur, they ultimately concluded that the likelihood of an explosion is low. The methodologies developed in this study hold promise for application to more than 1,400 active volcanoes worldwide and provide insights applicable even to those considered dormant yet showing incrementally active signs.