Azuma

Japan - Honshu


SUMMARY:

Type: composite
Activity: active
Last Eruption: 1978 AD
Rock Type: ?
Eruptive Volume: ? cu km
Location Map from Xerox PARC
Latitude: 37.73 N
Longitude: 140.25 E


GEOLOGIC HISTORY

The Azuma volcanic group consists of a cluster of stratovolcanoes, shield volcanoes, lava domes, and pyroclastic cones. The complex was constructed in two E-W rows above a relatively high basement of Tertiary sedimentary rocks and granodiorites. Volcanic activity has migrated to the east, with the Higashi-Azuma volcano group being the youngest.

Historic Activity:

  • Historical eruptions, mostly small phreatic explosions, have been restricted to Issaikyo volcano at the northern end of the Higashi-yama group.
  • The last eruption occurred in December 1977. Earthquakes began in Sept. 1977, followed by mud and sand spattering and ejection of small blocks in October, and active fuming in Novermber. The small eruption on Dec. 7, 1977 sent ash 500-1,000 m above the crater and produced minor ashfall. Similar ash ejections occurred through January 1978.

Recent Activity:

  • Small-amplitude volcanic tremor was detected on April 26, May 26, June 10, 17, and 30, and July 27, 1996.
  • Increase in seismic activity during April-May 2001

Data Sources

  • Smithsonian's SEAN Bulletin (V. 3, No. 1 and 2)
  • Global Volcanism Network (V. 21, No. 5 to V. 26, No. 10).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


Last Update: 1/2/02