Home >> Science & Nature >> Science

The Effects of Strombolian Eruptions

Strombolian eruptions take their name from Stromboli, a volcano off the coast of southwestern Italy that has been highly active since at least 400 B.C. In general, different kinds of volcanic eruptions can produce different effects. Some eruptions are ferocious, while others are relatively mild; some produce airline-halting volumes of ash, while others mainly emit gas or steam. Strombolian eruptions are chiefly characterized by loud but relatively small, frequent explosions spurting out viscous lava and other debris, which are usually confined to a limited area.

Background and Examples
- Volcanologists often categorize eruptions into one of five common types: Hawaiian, Pelean, Vulcanian, Vesuvian or Strombolian. Some volcanoes, however, may display characteristics of multiple eruption types. The volcano Stromboli is one of the most active volcanoes on the planet. Sitting on a tiny island, its cone rises some 900 meters (about 2,900 feet) above the surrounding sea. The volcano shares the island with the town of Stromboli, which has been able to exist in close proximity to the volcano owing to the extreme rareness of large-scale, destructive eruptions. However, no volcano is completely benign, and eruptions at Stromboli killed nine people during the 20th century. Other examples of volcanoes that often produce Strombolian eruptions include Italy̵7;s Mt. Etna and Guatemala̵7;s Pacaya.
Lava and Other Materials
- Strombolian eruptions emit lava that typically possesses a thick, pasty quality and hence does not readily flow fast or far. Strombolian eruptions may also discharge gases, cinders and small rocks. Usually, these materials don̵7;t travel great distances nor reach soaring heights, oftentimes accumulating within close proximity of the volcano̵7;s vent. Strombolian eruptions are unlikely to produce weather-altering ash plumes.
Brief but Frequent Lightshows
- Short-lived, often frequent explosions characterize the Strombolian eruption type. These eruptions can produce a stunning display of brightly colored lava, which generally poses no danger to those observing from a distance. For instance, Stromboli itself usually erupts multiple times per hour. This recurring spectacle has earned Stromboli the nickname ̶0;Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.̶1;
Thundering Sound Effects
- Another notable effect of Strombolian-type eruptions is their particularly loud noise. Strombolian eruptions are notorious for producing booming, thunder-like blasts. These sounds are due to the extreme gas pressure that builds up within the volcano, which is then suddenly released during an eruption.

Science