VONA message

Askja

Time: 03. Sep 2021, 17:55 GMT

Color code:  green 

Volcano id: 373060

Activity summary:
GPS observations and ground deformation maps derived from Sentinel-1 satellite data reveal that Askja volcano began inflating at the beginning of August 2021. The uplift signal is centered on the western edge of Öskjuvatn, close to Ólafsgígar, and corresponds to ~5 cm/month of vertical motion. Geodetic modelling (performed using both GPS and satellite data) indicates that the source of this inflation is located at a depth of approximately 3 km and corresponds to a volume change of approximately 0.01 km³/month. The cause of such inflation is uncertain, but most likely it is due to the inflow of new magma. Askja volcano is seismically active and earthquakes are regularly measured in the area. The inflation is continuing at present (3. Sept 2021) and will be closely monitored by IMO which will distribute additional information in case of further changes. The aviation color code is maintained green as the volume in place is still small and this might be the beginning of a long-term process. There are no signs of imminent eruption.

Cloud height:
No eruption

Other cloud information:
No eruption

Remarks:
The last eruption at Askja was in 1961. Regular geodetic measurements were done in 1970-1972 and showed a period of uplift, however no further measurements were acquired until 1983. Since then a continued subsidence of a rate of 1 cm/year was detected until this current inflation phase started. Active volcanoes in Iceland are often characterized by periods of inactivity, lasting years to decades, with intervals of enhanced seismicity, geothermal activity, and inflation. In most cases, magmatic intrusions do not culminate into an eruption. At the stage it is then very difficult to anticipate how the situation will evolve. More information on Askja volcano is available here: http://icelandicvolcanoes.is/?volcano=ASK