The volcano, which was previously considered extinct in Iran, has begun to show signs of activity again. A sensational study about this was published on October 7 of this year in the scientific journal "Advancing Earth and Space Sciences."
According to experts, the Taftan volcano, located in the southeast of the country, was considered inactive for 710 thousand years. However, the results of the new study show that a new stage of activity has begun in him.
Scientists, using special satellite observations, determined that the volcano's peak rose approximately 3.5 inches (that is, about 9 centimeters) in just 10 months between 2023 and 2024. This uplift indicates increased underground pressure and magma movement.
According to the data, the reactivation of Taftan volcano may be associated with the accumulation of hot liquid substances and gases at its bottom or the approach of magma to the Earth's surface. During 2024, local residents also observed smoke and ash emissions around the volcano, indicating that life is reviving in the previously considered inactive volcano.
As the lead author of the study, volcanologist Pablo González, emphasized, it would be more accurate to assess Taftán not as an extinct but as a "inactive" volcano. According to him, underground pressure is still rising, and it is possible that this will lead to a significant release of energy from the weak in the future.
According to Gonzalez's group's calculations, approximately 20 tons of gas - sulfur dioxide, water vapor, hydrogen sulfide, and hydrogen fluoride - are released through the volcano's openings daily. This indicator shows that Taftan is still at the center of active processes.
Mount Taftan is located at an altitude of about 4000 meters above sea level and is located in the territory of the province of Sistan and Balochistan, which borders Pakistan. The nearest major city is Zahe, located 160 kilometers from the volcano.
At the same time, scientists urge the population not to worry too much. "So far, there are no signs of an explosion or a large release of energy. However, Iranian official reports should constantly monitor Taftan's activities," said Pablo Gonzalez.
Recall that earlier this year, an active volcano erupted in Indonesia, which led to the suspension of air travel on the island. According to experts, the intensification of geological processes on Earth can also have a certain impact on the global climate.
Read “Zamin” on Telegram!
