Piton de la Fournaise: Ongoing Activity and What It Tells Us About Volcanic Resurgence
The Piton de la Fournaise volcano on Réunion Island is exhibiting continued activity following eruptions in January and a renewed phase beginning February 13, 2026. While currently contained within the uninhabited Enclos Fouqué caldera, the ongoing events highlight the dynamic nature of this shield volcano and offer valuable insights into volcanic behavior.
Recent Eruptive Phases: A Timeline
The current activity began with an eruption on January 18, 2026, triggered by a seismic crisis. This initial phase involved the opening of four fissures and lava flows advancing eastward, but surface emission ceased by January 20. Following a period of seismic activity and renewed inflation of the volcanic system, lava flows descended to an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters by February 13, 2026, and were approaching National Road 2 (RN2) by the evening.
Seismic and Deformation Data: What’s Happening Beneath the Surface?
Monitoring networks have been crucial in tracking the volcano’s behavior. On February 13, 2026, 551 summit volcano-tectonic earthquakes were recorded, alongside two deeper events. Crucially, GNSS data reveals both shallow and deeper pressurization of the magmatic source. This indicates magma is accumulating at multiple levels within the volcanic system. A seismic swarm of 343 small earthquakes occurred on February 6, too linked to magma intrusion.
Current Status and Safety Measures
As of February 14, 2026, lava effusion continues within the Enclos Fouqué. Authorities have closed all access points to the Enclos, including Pas de Bellecombe-Jacob, and evacuated hikers from the caldera. The alert level reflects an eruption contained within the caldera, posing no immediate threat to populated areas or infrastructure. Drivers near RN2 have been advised not to stop to avoid congestion.
Understanding Magmatic Pressurization and Future Eruptions
Monitoring reports emphasize that the shallow magma supply system remains under pressure. This pressurization could persist for days or months, potentially leading to further magma injections and eruptions. Alternatively, the pressure could subside without resulting in another surface eruption. The observed inflation and seismic activity suggest the volcano is far from a period of rest.
The Role of Monitoring in Volcanic Risk Management
The Piton de la Fournaise serves as a prime example of the importance of comprehensive volcanic monitoring. The combination of seismic data, deformation measurements, and thermal imaging allows scientists to track magma movement and assess the likelihood of future eruptions. This information is vital for informing public safety measures and minimizing potential risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Piton de la Fournaise dangerous?
A: While the volcano is active, the current eruption is contained within the uninhabited caldera, posing no immediate threat to populated areas.
Q: What causes the eruptions at Piton de la Fournaise?
A: Eruptions are caused by the accumulation of magma beneath the volcano, leading to increased pressure and eventual release through fissures and vents.
Q: How are scientists monitoring the volcano?
A: Scientists use a network of seismometers, GPS stations, and satellite imagery to track seismic activity, ground deformation, and thermal emissions.
Q: What is the Enclos Fouqué?
A: The Enclos Fouqué is a large caldera, a collapsed volcanic crater, that contains the summit area of Piton de la Fournaise.
Did you know? Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, having erupted more than 150 times since 1646.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about volcanic activity by following updates from the Observatoire Volcanologique du Piton de La Fournaise (https://www.ipgp.fr/volcanoweb/reunion/Bulletin_quotidien/bulletin.html).
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