Geologic Background:
La Soufriere de la Guadeloupe volcano occupies
the southern end of Basse-Terre, the western half of the
butterfly-shaped island of Guadeloupe. Construction of
the Grand Decouverte volcano about 0.2 million years ago
was followed by caldera formation after a plinian
eruption about 0.1 Ma, and then by construction of the
Carmichael volcano within the caldera. Two episodes of
edifice collapse and associated large debris avalanches
formed the Carmichael and Amic craters about 11,500 and
3,100 years ago, respectively. The presently active la
Soufriere volcano subsequently grew within the Amic
crater. The summit consists of a flat-topped lava dome,
and several other domes occur on the southern flanks.
Most historical eruptions have originated from
NW-SE-trending fissure systems that cut across the summit
and upper flanks.
Historic Activity:
- At least 9 eruptions since 1680. Eruptions in 1680,
1696, 1797, 1798-1799, 1809-1812, 1837, 1903, 1956, and
1976-1977.
Recent Activity:
- The last eruption in 1976-77 prompted the evacuation
of 70,000 people for several months, but turned out to be
only minor explosions. No activity since then.
Data Sources:
- Smithsonian's SEAN Bulletin (V. 1, No. 7 to V. 8, No.
3).
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