Falcon Island

Tonga Islands


SUMMARY

Type: submarine vent
Activity: active
Last Eruption: 1970
Rock Type: ?
Eruptive Volume: ?
Location Map from Xerox PARC
Latitude: 20.32 S
Longitude: 175.42 W


Geologic Background:

The ephemeral Falcon Island, named after the H.M.S. Falcon, which reported a shoal in 1865, has been the site of island-forming eruptions on at least two occasions since the 19th century.

Historic Activity:

  • At least 11 eruptions since 1781.
  • Islands up to 6 km in length were formed in eruptions beginning in 1885 and 1927. Passing ships often reported "smoke" issuing from the site of Falcon Island.
  • The latest explosive eruptions were reported in 1936.
  • By 1949 the island had eroded beneath sea level.
  • An eruption of uncertain location (may have been Falcon Island) occurred in 1970.

Recent Activity:

  • None since 1970

Data Sources:



ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


Last Update: 12/15/00