What's happened
Recent eruptions from unmonitored, dormant volcanoes highlight the risk of overlooked threats. Experts warn these hidden volcanoes, often in remote regions like Ethiopia and Mexico, can cause widespread climate and societal disruptions, yet remain poorly monitored compared to famous volcanoes like Yellowstone.
What's behind the headline?
The real danger lies in overlooked volcanoes
Despite the dramatic attention given to famous volcanoes, the majority of eruptions occur from less-monitored, dormant-looking volcanoes. Cassidy’s research emphasizes that three-quarters of large eruptions originate from volcanoes that have been quiet for over a century. This bias towards well-known volcanoes creates a false sense of security and underfunds monitoring efforts in high-risk regions.
Why this matters now
The recent eruption of Hayli Gubbi in Ethiopia, which had no recorded activity for nearly 12,000 years, exemplifies the danger of ignoring these 'sleeping giants.' Such eruptions can trigger climate effects, disrupt agriculture, and cause social upheaval far beyond their immediate vicinity.
Policy implications
Cassidy advocates for shifting monitoring resources towards Latin America, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. These regions host millions living near unmonitored volcanoes, where modest investments could prevent disasters and save lives. The current focus on big-name volcanoes is a strategic oversight that leaves many communities vulnerable to sudden, unanticipated eruptions.
What the papers say
The NY Post highlights the overlooked risk of hidden volcanoes, citing Cassidy’s warning that these dormant volcanoes erupt more often than most realize, with global consequences. The Independent and AP News report on recent eruptions of Kilauea in Hawaii, which has been active since December 2024, illustrating ongoing volcanic activity that is well-monitored but still part of a broader pattern of frequent eruptions. While these reports focus on Hawaii’s activity, Cassidy’s broader point about unmonitored volcanoes in remote regions underscores the global risk. The contrast between Hawaii’s well-monitored eruptions and the neglected, potentially more dangerous volcanoes elsewhere underscores the need for a strategic shift in monitoring priorities.
How we got here
Most scientific focus has historically been on well-known volcanoes such as Yellowstone and Mount Etna. However, many less-monitored volcanoes, especially in regions like the Pacific, South America, and Africa, erupt more frequently than recognized. These eruptions can have significant global impacts, including climate shifts and food shortages, as seen in past events like the 1982 El Chichón eruption and the 1983-85 Ethiopian famine.
Go deeper
Common question
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What is the current status of Kilauea's eruption?
Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, continues to erupt in Hawaii. While the activity remains intense, recent updates show that the lava is confined within the summit caldera, posing no immediate threat to nearby communities. Curious about how active Kilauea is, what impacts it has, and how authorities monitor it? Keep reading for the latest insights and answers to your questions.
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How Do Volcanic Eruptions Like Kilauea Impact Local Environments?
Recent volcanic activity at Kilauea has brought attention to how eruptions affect nearby areas. While the current eruption is contained within the summit caldera and poses no immediate threat to residents, understanding the broader environmental impacts is crucial. Many wonder how such eruptions influence local ecosystems, air quality, and long-term landscape changes. Below, we explore common questions about volcanic eruptions and their effects on the environment.
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