Geologic Background:
Sarychev Peak occupies the NW end of Matua
Island. The central cone was constructed within a 3-3.5
km wide caldera, whose rim is exposed only on the SW
side. A 250-m-wide, very steep-walled crater, whose
substantially higher SE rim forms the high point of the
island, caps Sarychev volcano. Fresh-looking lava flows
descend all sides.
Historic Activity:
- Sarychev Peak is one of the most active in the
Kuriles, having 13 documented eruptions since the 1760's.
Last major eruption was in 1976.
- Eruptions have been recorded since the 1760's and
include both quiet lava effusion and violent explosions.
- The largest historical eruption of Sarychev Peak in
1946 produced pyroclastic flows that reached the sea.
Recent Activity:
- In September 1986, lava extended about 150 m from the
south part of the crater.
- Ash eruption in January 1989.
Data Sources:
- Smithsonian's SEAN Bulletin (V. 1, No. 13 to V. 14,
No. 3).
|