Scientists from the China University of Science and Technology were studying the Weishan volcano, located within the Wudalianchi volcanic field in the northeast of the country. This volcano last erupted about 500,000 years ago, but there have been other, much more recent eruptions at the complex. The Wudalianchi volcanic field covers about 193 square miles and contains 14 steep cinder cones that are surrounded by lava flows.
The last eruption at the site was in 1776, but a study led by Ji Gao – Published in Geology magazine last month, he says there may be activity under Weishan.
The team created a 3D map showing the structure below, apparently identifying two magma pockets.
Scientists had previously identified a shallow magma chamber below the volcano.
In the latest study, the team found this shallow chamber in the upper cortex, along with a deeper one, in the middle cortex.
The researchers say the findings are consistent with models that suggest magma in the middle cortex may be serving as a source to “recharge the magma chamber in the upper cortex.”
The team says that according to their analysis, the molten fraction of magma in the chambers below the volcano is around 15 percent.
In general, eruptions are thought to occur when this number reaches 40 percent, but researchers have warned that further monitoring should now be introduced.
They also fear that a series of earthquakes reported in the region since 2008 may indicate the movement of magma, a sign that an eruption could be on the way.
The study says: “Considering the significant melting fractions and active earthquakes and tremors that occur around the magma deposits, the Weishan volcano is probably in an active stage with magma recharging.
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“When the lower chamber recharges the upper chamber, there must be some movement.
“But so far, after decades of on-site monitoring, we have collected almost nothing. The whole area has been very, very quiet. “
Overall, the study has revealed that volcanoes in northeast China may be in an active phase.
This poses a serious threat to human life and the environment, which means that further monitoring is required to forecast any involvement.
