Mauna Loa volcano erupts in Hawaii infographic
Graphic shows the volcano of Mauna Loa.
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UNITED STATES

Hawaii volcano erupts for first time in nearly 40 years

By Ninian Carter

November 29, 2022 - The world’s largest active volcano is erupting for the first time in 38 years, its longest quiet period in recorded history.

Mauna Loa on Hawaii, the world’s largest active volcano, has begun erupting for the first time since 1984 – ending its longest ever recorded quiet period.

Presently, the lava is contained within the summit’s 6km-long, 2.5km-wide caldera and poses no threat to civilians, although the U.S. Geological Service (USGS) has issued alerts saying volcanic gases and fine ash may drift into populated areas.

Mauna Loa, which rises to an altitude of 4,169 meters, last erupted in 1984, sending a flow of lava to within 8km of Hilo, the island’s largest settlement, which today has a population of 44,000 people.

Around half of all recorded eruptions of Mauna Loa have been confined to the summit, the USGS says.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 29/11/2022; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Newscom
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