The scientists from the University of Illinois developed a new model for detecting the next supervolcano eruption. With this new model, the researchers indicate that clear and widespread geological signals could be observed prior to the next Yellowstone supervolcano eruption.
The new model focused on the apparently unattended tectonic stress shocks on the rocky beds on which the majority of the supervolcanoes in the world are situated. Basically, the model hypothesizes that any tectonic stress occurring on the rocks may point to the imminent unrest of the supervolcanoes. Tectonic stress is caused by plates movements.
With on-site estimations of the tectonic stress, in areas where supervolcanoes reside, scientists are now able to predict when the next supervolcano eruption will occur.
The recent successive Geyser eruptions in Yellowstone are not a sign of the supervolcano eruption
Researchers were puzzled by the three successive eruptions of geysers in Yellowstone National Park over the past one month and a half. Scientists, though, ruled out speculation that the geyser eruptions are indicating an imminent Yellowstone supervolcano eruption.
Patricia Gregg, one of the new model’s advocator, remarked that any kind of tectonic or geyser events in Yellowstone National Park would cause fear, obviously, but her investigation hints that the signals of catastrophic eruptions would be overwhelming and durable in comparison to ordinary seismic events or geyser eruptions.
“When the new magma begins to rejuvenate a system of supervolcanoes, we can expect to see a massive uplift, faults, and seismic activity. Much more than the meter-scale events we’ve seen in recent times,” explains Patricia Gregg.
The new model for predicting Yellowstone supervolcano eruption
Basing on the Taupo Volcanic Zone in New Zealand, the researchers, including Patricia Gregg, Eric Grisfils, and Haley Cabaniss, were able to create their new model for forecasting future supervolcanoes eruptions.
The scientists have chosen to base their research on New Zealand’s Taupo Volcano because of the straightforward tectonic spread-out layout of the area, a feature which is usually observed in other supervolcanoes in the world, including the Yellowstone.
Scientists came to the assumption that hundreds to thousands of years will be required before a plentiful supply of magma could unleash an eruption and last time when this happened, there has been tremendous tectonic stress. In conclusion, they say, clear geological signals will be unleashed prior to a Yellow supervolcano eruption.
