Volcanoes form some of Earth's most spectacular scenery and have been designated as national parks in many countries. The natural landscapes in these parks are a source of visual inspiration and varied recreational opportunities and can also provide economic benefit to surrounding communities. Crater Lake National Park in the Oregon Cascade Range was established in 1902. This image looks across to Wizard Island and the western caldera rim from near the park visitor center and the Crater Lake Lodge. Photo by Lee Siebert, 1997 (Smithsonian Institution)
During 27 January-2 February, the MODIS sensor continued to frequently detect thermal anomalies from Nyiragongo, likely from lava lake activity. The Toulouse VAAC reported that during 30-31 January a diffuse plume drifted 240 km W.
On 29 January, the Vanuatu Geohazards Observatory reported significant changes in Gaua's activity over the previous two weeks. They noted that since 16 January more gas was emitted and multiple explosions produced denser and darker ash plumes. On 24 January nearby villagers reported seeing ejected material from Strombolian activity.
The Smithsonian's Global Volcanism Program seeks better understanding of all volcanoes through documenting their eruptions — small as well as large — during the past 10,000 years.
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