Volcanism in Italy: The Hazard Implications of Hydromagmatic Eruptions

Abstract

AbstractThere are several active volcanoes in Italy and during historic times these have given rise to a variety of different kinds of eruption. Hydromagmatism is one kind of volcanism which poses a particular threat in Italy. Hydromagmatism results from the interaction between magma and an external source of water, which can transform relatively mild volcanism into violent explosive events. Pyroclastic surges, blasts of gas and pyroclastic material that travel radially outwards from the vent at hurricane velocities are a characteristic feature of explosive hydromagmatic eruptions and represent a major volcanic hazard. A study of the nature of past eruptions in Italy indicates that hydromagmatism has been a major process. Here it is considered that hydro magmatism is a significant threat in Italy, in particular with regard to future volcanic activity at Campi Flegrei and Vulcano.