Photograph by Norman S. MacLeod, May 1979. View of Newberry caldera from Paulina Peak on the south rim of the caldera.

Deep blue lakes, cinder cones, and obsidian lava flows in the summit caldera of Newberry volcano are the result of recent eruptions. This view looks north from Paulina Peak on the south rim of the caldera. The Big Obsidian Flow (behind the person in foreground) was erupted about 1,300 years ago after a series of explosive events (also see below). The Central Pumice Cone (largest cone in upper left) was erupted about 7,000 years ago. East Lake and its companion, Paulina Lake (out of view to left), partially fill the caldera.

A new 14-page report describes the kinds of hazardous geologic events that might occur from future eruptions at Newberry volcano, located about 40 km south of Bend, Oregon. Such eruptions may range from relatively quiet effusion of lava flows to highly explosive discharge of pumice and ash. The report includes a 1:100,000-scale map that shows the areas most likely affected by renewed eruptions. Although Newberry is presently quiet, when the volcano becomes restless, be it tomorrow or many years from now, the eruptive scenarios described herein can inform planners, emergency response personnel, and citizens about the kinds and sizes of events to expect.

Newberry is a broad shield volcano built by thousands of eruptions, beginning about 600,000 years ago. At least 25 vents on the flanks and summit have been active during several eruptive episodes of the past 10,000 years. The most recent episode occurred 1,300 years ago. Thus, the volcano's long history and recent activity indicate that Newberry will erupt in the future.

Evidence of explosive eruptions 1300 years ago.

		Eruption begins with large eruption column ....
		... and pyroclastic flows pour from the vent

How to Get a Copy of the Newberry hazards report

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