Research and Monitoring
USGS volcano-monitoring strategies and interpretations of precursory unrest are founded on an understanding of magmatic processes and eruption dynamics. The Volcano Hazards Program utilizes many tools from seismology, geophysics, geochemistry, field geology, and hydrology to acquire fundamental knowledge about how volcanoes work. The Volcano Hazard Program aims to better integrate topical investigations with monitoring and assessment activities by focusing research at volcanoes with observations and measurements from pre-eruptive and syn-eruptive events. Topical studies include those designed to: discriminate if seismic and other signals are precursors to eruption or signify temporary fitfulness or intrusion without eruption; determine what triggers eruptions and whether a volcanic system is waxing or waning; and identify what factors control the style and explosivity of eruptions.
Furthermore, the diverse character of volcanic eruptions is determined not only by the processes taking place in magmatic systems at depth, but also by near-surface and surficial hydrologic processes before, during, and after eruptions. The Volcano Hazards Program seeks a better understanding of what happens when shallow ground and surface water interact with magma and eruptive products and of the dynamics of lahars and debris avalanches at volcanoes.
