Most Recent Weekly Report: 24 April-30 April 2024 Cite this Report

SERNAGEOMIN reported that inflation had been detected at the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex since 2011 based on GNSS satellite and radar data. The inflation is centered about 6 km WNW of the 2011 eruption vents. The rate of inflation had increased during the first few months of 2024, reaching a maximum average of 2.4 cm per month, which was the highest rate detected since GNSS equipment was installed in 2017. Seismicity began to slightly increase in mid-2020 and was characterized by volcano-tectonic and hybrid events from a shallow source near the 2011 vents. Gas emissions rose from the 2011 vents and were nearly 90 degrees Celsius. The Alert Level was raised to Yellow (the second lowest color on a four-color scale) on 26 April based on the high deformation rates.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

Most Recent Bulletin Report: September 2013 (BGVN 38:09) Cite this Report

Weekly Reports - Index

2024: April
2014: January | February
2013: December
2012: January | February | March | April
2011: April | June | July | August | September | October | November | December

24 April-30 April 2024 Cite this Report

SERNAGEOMIN reported that inflation had been detected at the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex since 2011 based on GNSS satellite and radar data. The inflation is centered about 6 km WNW of the 2011 eruption vents. The rate of inflation had increased during the first few months of 2024, reaching a maximum average of 2.4 cm per month, which was the highest rate detected since GNSS equipment was installed in 2017. Seismicity began to slightly increase in mid-2020 and was characterized by volcano-tectonic and hybrid events from a shallow source near the 2011 vents. Gas emissions rose from the 2011 vents and were nearly 90 degrees Celsius. The Alert Level was raised to Yellow (the second lowest color on a four-color scale) on 26 April based on the high deformation rates.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

19 February-25 February 2014 Cite this Report

Based on analyses of satellite images, the Buenos Aires VAAC reported that on 24 February a diffuse plume possibly containing ash from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, was lifted from the surface by the wind.

Source: Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

15 January-21 January 2014 Cite this Report

Based on analyses of satellite images, the Buenos Aires VAAC reported that on 16 January steam-and-gas emissions with minor amounts of ash rose from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, to an altitude of 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. The plume quickly dissipated. The Alert Level remained at Green (lowest on a four-color scale).

Sources: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN); Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

11 December-17 December 2013 Cite this Report

A scientist from NOAA's National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) reported that an ash cloud drifting NNE from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, was visible in satellite images starting at 0800 on 14 December. The scientist noted that, although it appeared to be a fresh emission, the cloud was likely re-suspended ash from strong southerly winds. In addition, no other evidence of renewed activity was detected.

Source: Michael J. Pavolonis (NOAA/NESDIS), personal communication

18 April-24 April 2012 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that, although cloud cover often prevented observations during 17-22 April, satellite and web camera views of the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, occasionally showed plumes that rose no higher than 400 m above the crater. Incandescence from the crater was observed during 17-18 and 20-21 April. Due to the low level of activity and decreasing seismicity, the Alert Level was lowered to Yellow on 23 April.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

11 April-17 April 2012 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that, although cloud cover often prevented observations during 11-17 April, satellite and web camera views of the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, showed plumes almost daily that rose no higher than 1 km above the crater. Incandescence from the crater was observed during 10-11 April. The Alert Level remained at Orange.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

4 April-10 April 2012 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that during 9-10 April satellite and web camera observations of the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, showed plumes that rose no higher than 450 m above the crater. Incandescence from the crater was also observed. The Alert Level remained at Orange.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

28 March-3 April 2012 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that during 27 March-3 April satellite and web camera observations of the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, showed plumes that rose no higher than 1.2 km above the crater. Incandescence from the crater was observed every night. The Alert Level remained at Orange.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

21 March-27 March 2012 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that although cloud cover often prevented satellite and web camera observations of the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, during 20-27 March plumes were sometimes observed rising no higher than 1 km above the crater. The Alert Level was lowered to Orange on 23 March. Incandescence from the crater was observed during 23-27 March.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

14 March-20 March 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity detected during 13-20 March, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes observed during 13-16 March in web camera and satellite images rose 0.4-1.2 km above the crater, and drifted 30 km E on 14 March, 20 km N on 15 March, and 17 km NNE on 19 March. Incandescence from the crater was observed during 13-14 and 16-20 March. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

7 March-13 March 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity detected during 6-13 March, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes observed most days in web camera and satellite images rose 0.3-1.2 km above the crater and drifted 30-50 km NNE, E, and SW. Incandescence from the crater was observed during 5-8 and 10-13 March. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

29 February-6 March 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity detected during 28 February-4 March, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. During 28-29 February plumes observed with a web camera and satellite images rose 1 km above the crater and drifted 40 km NNE. During 2-3 March plumes rose 0.7-3 km above the crater and drifted SE. Cloud cover prevented observations of the crater on 4 March. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

22 February-28 February 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity detected during 21-27 February, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. SERNAGEOMIN and ONEMI scientists aboard an overflight on 21 February reported that lava reached the valley of the Nilahue River, and two lava flows advanced to the N margin of the W crater. Some areas were covered in pumice and gray ash deposits. During 23-24 February plumes observed with a web camera rose 1 km above the crater; clouds prevented views on 22 and 25-26 February. Satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 60-100 km N and E during 22-23 February. Clouds prevented clear satellite views during 24-26 February. Crater incandescence was observed on 26 February. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

15 February-21 February 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity detected during 15-21 February, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. During 14-16 and 20-21 February plumes observed with a web camera rose 1 km above the crater; clouds prevented views during 17-19 February. Satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 12-180 km NE, ENE, SE, and ESE during 14-15 and 18-21 February. Clouds prevented views from satellite during 16-17 February. Crater incandescence was observed during 14-15 February. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

8 February-14 February 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity detected during 8-13 February, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. During 8-11and 13 February plumes observed with a web camera rose 1-3 km above the crater; clouds prevented views on 12 February. Satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 20-90 km N, NE, ENE, E, ESE, and SSE during 8-13 February. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

1 February-7 February 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity detected during 1-7 February OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. During 1-7 February plumes observed with a web camera rose 1-4 km above the crater and satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 90-180 km NE, ENE, E, and SE. On 2 February a plume drifted 32 km NE and then dispersed 100 km N. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

25 January-31 January 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity detected during 25-31 January OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. During 25-28 January plumes observed with a web camera rose 2-4 km above the crater and satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 90-320 km S and SE. During 29-31 January clouds prevented views. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

18 January-24 January 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity detected during 18-24 January OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. On 18, 20, and 22-23 January plumes observed with a web camera rose 2.5-7 km above the crater and on 18, 20, and 22-24 January satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 25-110 km NE, E, SE, and W. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

11 January-17 January 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 11-16 January OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes observed with a web camera during the week rose 1-4 km above the crater, and satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 60-300 km N, NE, and SE. The Alert Level remained at Red. According to a news article, an airport cancelled all flights in and out of Bariloche, Patagonia, on 16 January because of ash plumes. An airport in Melbourne, Australia, was also forced to close due to ash from these eruptions.

Sources: BBC News; Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

4 January-10 January 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 6-8 January OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes observed with a web camera rose 2 km above the crater on 6 January. Satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 50 km S on 6 January and 300-450 km SE during 8-9 January. Clouds prevented views on the other days. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

28 December-3 January 2012 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 28 December-3 January, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Small incandescent explosions were observed at night during 28 December-3 January. Plumes observed with a web camera during the week rose 1-5 km above the crater. Satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 20-80 km N, NNE, NE, and SE during 28 December-3 January, dispersing ash to distances of 100-260 km. On 28 December ash fell as far away Argentina, up to 580 km SE. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

21 December-27 December 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 21-26 December, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Small incandescent explosions were observed at night during 21-24 December. Plumes observed with a web camera during 22-23 December rose 1-2.5 km above the crater and 5 km above the crater on 26 December. Satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 20-250 km E, SE, SW, NW, and NNE during 21-26 December. Ash spread 140 km NW and 200 km NNW on 23 December, ash scattered 55 km SE on 25 December, and 100 km N and 200 km ESE on 26 December. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

14 December-20 December 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 14-20 December, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes observed with the web camera during 14-15 December rose 2.4-2.5 km above the crater and plumes were identified in satellite imagery drifting 30-50 km SE, S, and NE during 14-18. Satellite images showed ash plumes drifting 40-270 km SE, S, and NE during 14-18 December. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

7 December-13 December 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 7-13 December, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes observed with the web camera during 8-9 December rose 3.0-3.5 km above the crater and plumes were identified in satellite imagery drifting 90 km SE on 8 December and 250 km ENE on 9 December. Cloud cover prevented web camera and satellite observations during 10-13 December, but ashfall was reported to the E during 10-11 December. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

30 November-6 December 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 30 November-6 December, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. During 1-3 and 5 December plumes observed with the web camera rose 1.5-3 km above the crater. On 1 December satellite imagery showed an ash plume drifting 90 km SSE with sparse ashfall to the W and NW and dissipated 100 km to the SE. During the night the crater was incandescent. Satellite imagery showed an ash plume drifting E and SE and reaching the Atlantic Ocean on 2 December. Cloud cover prevented satellite data during 3-4 December. On 5 December satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 100 km NW. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

23 November-29 November 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 23-28 November, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Cloud cover prevented web camera views during 24-25 November, but satellite imagery showed a discontinuous ash plume drifting E and reaching the Atlantic Ocean on 24 November, and a fan-shaped ash plume spreading NE to SE on 25 November. Plumes observed with the web camera during 26-27 November rose 2.3-2.5 km above the crater. According to a news article, flights out of Uruguay were disrupted or cancelled on 26 November due to ash plumes. A plume observed in satellite imagery drifted 300 km E on 28 November. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP); Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

16 November-22 November 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 16-20 November, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Cloud cover prevented web camera views on 16 November, but satellite imagery showed an ash plume drifting 100 km SW and sparse ashfall to the E. During 18-20 November plumes observed with the web camera rose 2.5-3 km above the crater. Satellite imagery showed ash clouds drifting E and SE on 18 November and an ash plume drifting 250 km SE on 19 November. During the night on 20 November the crater was incandescent. Cloud cover prevented observations on 21 November. The Alert Level remained at Red.

According to a news article, flights in Uruguay and Argentina were disrupted or cancelled on 22 November due to the presence of ash.

Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP); Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

9 November-15 November 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 9-13 November, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. During 9-10 November clouds prevented observations with an area web camera, but on 9 November satellite imagery showed an ash plume that drifted and dissipated to the E. During 11-12 November mostly gray plumes observed with the web camera rose 4-7 km above the crater. During the night the crater was incandescent and small explosions were observed. Satellite imagery showed ash plumes drifting 90 km NE on 11 November and 400 km SE on 12 November. Ash fell in areas on the border of Chile and Argentina at Paso Samore on 12 November. Cloud cover prevented web camera views on 13 November, but satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 250 km NE. A gray plume rose 6.5 km above the crater on 14 November. That same day a plume identified in satellite imagery drifted 200 km NW and ash clouds drifted from the SE to the NE. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

2 November-8 November 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 3-8 November, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. During 3-6 November plumes observed with an area web camera rose 5 km above the crater, and satellite imagery showed active plumes drifting 30-120 km N, NE, E, and SE. Ash plumes dispersed as far as 300 km NE and SE. Area cameras showed a plume rising 2 km above the crater on 7 November. Cloud cover prevented observations of the plume with the area camera the next day and from satellite during 7-8 November. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

26 October-1 November 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 26 October-1 November, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level.

During 26-29 October white plumes observed with an area web camera rose 4.5-5 km above the crater. Satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 30 km SW and W on 26 October, and diffuse ash plumes drifting E during 27-28 October. Small incandescent explosions were observed at night during 28-29 October. A plume observed in satellite imagery drifted 180 km N and NW on 29 October, and ashfall was reported in Lonquimay.

On 30 October seismicity possibly indicated minor lava effusion. A mostly white plume rose 7.5 km above the crater and ash plumes observed in satellite imagery drifted 350 km NW and N. Ashfall was reported in Río Bueno (80 km WNW). Small incandescent explosions were observed at night during 30-31 October. A mostly white plume rose as high as 6.5 km above the crater on 31 October and ash plumes observed in satellite imagery drifted 270 km S and SSW. On 1 November satellite imagery showed an ash plume that drifted 300 km SE. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

19 October-25 October 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 19-25 October, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, mostly continued at a low level. Seismicity did increase during the last few days of the reporting period.

Plumes visible with an area web camera rose no higher than 2 km above the crater during 19-20 October. A small plume visible in satellite imagery on 19 October drifted 50 km E and a diffuse ash plume drifted 150 km NE and SE. On 20 October a small plume drifted 70 km E.

At night on 22 October incandescence emanated from the crater, possibly from active lava flows reported during the previous few days. At 0311 an explosion generated a plume that rose 4.5 km above the crater as well as increased incandescence from the crater. An ash plume observed in satellite imagery drifted 120 km W and NW, and a diffuse ash plume drifted 250 km NE and SE. During the day a white plume rose 3 km above the crater. Satellite imagery showed a plume that drifted 125 km NE, then dissipated NE and SE. On 24 October, a plume rose 6 km above the crater. Satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 125 km NE and a diffuse ash plume drifting 280 km in the same direction. The next day white plumes did not rise higher than 7.5 km above the crater and satellite imagery showed a plume that drifted 100 km NW and SW. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

12 October-18 October 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 11-12 October, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes visible with an area web camera rose no higher than 4 km above the crater during 11-12 October. On 17 October a white plume rose 4.5 km above the crater and a diffuse ash plume observed in satellite imagery drifted 30 km SE. The next day, a white plume rose 3 km above the crater. Satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 50 km NE, and then later a diffuse ash plume drifting 200 km NE and SE. The Alert Level remained at Red.

According to news articles, several domestic and international flights in Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay were cancelled on 16 October due to re-suspended ash. OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN also noted that there was not an increase in volcanic activity, but high winds in the region. Flights resumed the next day.

Sources: Associated Press; Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

5 October-11 October 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 5-10 October, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes visible with an area web camera rose no higher than 4 km above the crater during 5-7 October and were observed in satellite imagery drifting 30-60 km SE, SW, and N. On 9 October a white plume observed with the camera rose 4 km above the crater. Satellite imagery that day showed a widely dispersed ash plume drifting E. On 10 October a plume that was mostly white, but occasionally gray, rose 3.5 km above the crater. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

28 September-4 October 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 28 September-4 October, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes visible in satellite images drifted 30-300 km NW, NE, E, and SE during 28 September-3 October. Plumes were also observed with an area camera to rise as high as 4 km during 30 September-4 October. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

21 September-27 September 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 21-26 September, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Plumes observed by an area camera rose 3-5 km above the crater during 21-23 and 25 September and were visible in satellite images drifted 30-300 km NE, E, and SE during 21-26 September. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

14 September-20 September 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 14-16 and 18-20 September, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Although cloudy weather mostly prevented observations of the vent, a plume was observed in satellite imagery drifting 60 km E on 14 September, and the next day, a plume observed by an area camera rose 4 km above the crater and drifted SE. Plumes observed in satellite imagery drifted 40-70 km N and NW during 18-20 September. Plumes observed during 19-20 September by an area camera rose 3-4 km above the crater. According to a news article, on 17 September the first commercial plane landed at the airport in Bariloche, about 60 km SE, since the airport had closed on 4 June. Private planes had been occasionally using the airport since mid-July. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP); Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

7 September-13 September 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 7-13 September, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Although cloudy weather mostly prevented observations of the vent, plumes detected in satellite imagery during 7-8, 10, and 12 September drifted 10-60 km NE, E, and SE. A plume observed by an area camera on 12 September rose less than 1 km above the crater. The next day a plume rose less than 4 km above the crater and was observed in satellite imagery drifting 35 km NE. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

31 August-6 September 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 31 August-5 September, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Although cloudy weather mostly prevented satellite and camera observations of the vent, plumes detected in satellite imagery during 31 August-1 September drifted SE and SW. A plume observed by an area camera on 1 September rose 1 km above the crater. On 3 and 5 September plumes observed in satellite imagery drifted 30-80 km SE and E. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

24 August-30 August 2011 Cite this Report

Based on seismicity during 24-25 August, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. A predominantly white plume observed by an area camera rose 1 km above the crater. The seismic network detected four explosions that caused the plume to turn gray. Ashfall was reported in Temuco. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

17 August-23 August 2011 Cite this Report

During 16-23 August, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that seismic activity indicated the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued at a low level. Cloudy weather mostly prevented satellite and camera observations of the eruption during 16-17 August, however a mostly white plume was observed by an area camera rising 2 km above the crater on 16 August. A plume that was sometimes gray rose 2.5 km above the crater on 18 August. A plume observed in satellite imagery that same day drifted 200 km NW. A period of harmonic tremor that lasted about 25 minutes may have indicated lava emission. Incandescence was observed at night during 18-19 August.

On 19 August a camera recorded a mostly white plume that rose 2 km above the crater. Satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 270 km NW. During an overflight, conducted by ONEMI in collaboration with the Air Force, scientists observed a white plume rising 1.4 km that was dark gray for the first few meters above the vent. Solidified lava filled up a depression around Cordón Caulle; no active lava flows were noted. On 20 August a plume that was mostly white rose 2.5 km above the crater. Two explosive events caused the plume to rise 4 km and contain a higher concentration of ash. Satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 200 km WNW on 20 August, and 500 km SE and NW on 21 August. A white plume that rose 2 km above the crater was observed on 22 August. Satellite imagery showed a very diffuse plume drifting E. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

10 August-16 August 2011 Cite this Report

During 10-14 August, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption continued from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex. Cloud cover prevented video camera observations during 10-12 August and satellite observations during 10-11 August. A diffuse plume detected in satellite imagery on 12 August drifted 150 km E. On 14 August a gray plume recorded by the camera rose 2 km above the crater, and satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 100-150 km E and SE. The Alert Level remained at Red, indicating that ashfall and lahars remain a hazard.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

3 August-9 August 2011 Cite this Report

During 3-8 August, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption continued from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex. During 3-4 August a video camera recorded plumes rising 2 km above the crater. Satellite imagery showed plumes drifting 1,000 km NE on 3 August and 700 km SE on 4 August. Cloud cover prevented video camera and satellite observations on 5 August. The next day cloud cover again prevented camera observations, though satellite imagery detected a plume that drifted 250 km E then SE. Plumes that were mostly white rose no higher than 2.5 km above the crater during 7-8 August. Satellite imagery on 7 August detected plumes that drifted 100-200 km SE. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

27 July-2 August 2011 Cite this Report

During 25 July-1 August, OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, continued and seismicity indicated that the lava flow remained active. Cloud cover prevented observations by a video camera on 25 July, though satellite imagery detected a plume that drifted 200 km SE. On 26 July the camera recorded a plume that rose 2 km above the crater and incandescence up to 500 m above the crater was observed at night. Satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 100 km SE. Cloud cover again prevented camera observations during 27-28 July, but on 28 July a 150-km-long plume was observed in satellite imagery drifting SE. During 29-31 July plumes rose 2-5 km above the crater and satellite imagery showed plumes drifting 80-400 km SW, N, and NE. Incandescence was observed up to 300 m above the crater at night during 29-30 July. Cloud cover prevented observations on 1 August. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

20 July-26 July 2011 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that on 20 July cameras installed around the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex recorded gray ash plumes that rose 3 km above the Cordón Caulle rift zone. Satellite imagery showed that the plume drifted 80 km E, becoming diffuse. Incandescence up to 500 m above the crater was observed at night. During 20-21 July seismic signals indicated active lava flows. Cloudy weather on 21 July prevented crater observations. Eruption plumes observed in satellite imagery on 22 July drifted 250 km E and SE. Seismic data indicated that the lava flows had stopped. The next day plumes rose 1-2 km above the crater; satellite imagery detected plumes that drifted 100 km E and SE. On 25 July gray ash plumes rose as high as 2.5 km and drifted SE. Lava flows were again active based on seismic data. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

13 July-19 July 2011 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that on 12 and 14 July cameras installed around the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex recorded eruption plumes that rose no higher than 2 km above the Cordón Caulle rift zone and drifted E; weather prevented observations of the plume on 13 July. Seismic activity declined significantly. On 15 July satellite imagery showed a plume drifting 80 km E and seismic signals indicated that lava started to flow again. The effusion rate increased on 16 July, however weather again prevented observations. A light gray plume on 17 July rose 2 km above the crater and was observed in satellite imagery drifting 240 km E. According to a news article, the first plane landed at the airport in Bariloche, about 100 km E, since the airport had closed on 4 June. On 18 July a gray plume rose 5 km above the crater and drifted 150 km NW. Incandescent material observed at night was ejected 500 m above the crater and lava flows continued to be active. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Sources: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN); MercoPress

6 July-12 July 2011 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that during 6-8 July cameras installed around the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex recorded eruption plumes that rose no higher than 2 km above the Cordón Caulle rift zone and drifted N and NE. On 6 July satellite imagery indicated that the plume drifted 75 km NE. During 7-8 July explosions recorded by the seismic network corresponded to increases in the plume height and, on 7 July, caused windows in Riñinahue to vibrate. According to news articles, numerous flights in and around Argentina and Uruguay were cancelled on 8 July and some airports had remained closed.

On 9 July seismicity indicated that lava flows had ceased. During 9-11 July weather conditions prevented views of the eruption plume by cameras installed around the volcano. Based on analysis of satellite imagery, the Buenos Aires VAAC stated on 9 July that, although ash plumes rose to an altitude of 3 km (10,000 ft), activity was weakening. Ash was again detected by satellite during periods of clear weather the next day. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP); Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC); Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

29 June-5 July 2011 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption continued from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex. During 29-30 June weather conditions prevented views of the eruption plume by cameras installed around the volcano as well as by satellite. On 1 July a white plume, possibly with lower ash content, rose 3 km above the crater and was observed in satellite imagery drifting 200 km N. News articles noted that flights in Argentina were disrupted.

During 2-4 July SERNAGEOMIN noted that dark gray plumes rose 2-4 km above the crater and were detected in satellite imagery drifting 200-900 km NW, N, and somewhat E. Although there were no new aerial observations, seismicity indicated that during 29 June-2 July the lava flow remained active, although to a lesser degree than during previous days. During 2-3 July seismic signals indicated that lava had stopped flowing or was emitted at a slower rate. The next day high-intensity tremor suggested that the lava flow was again active. On 5 July satellite imagery showed that the plume drifted N then NW. The Alert Level remained at 6, Red.

Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP); Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

22 June-28 June 2011 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption continued from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex. During 22 and 24-26 June cameras installed around the volcano recorded ash plumes that rose 2-4 km above the crater and drifted NW, N, and NE. Although meteorological cloud cover prevented camera observations on 23 and 28 June, the Buenos Aires VAAC reported that ash clouds detected in satellite imagery rose to altitudes of 4-4.6 km (13,000-15,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and NE. On 25 June SERNAGEOMIN noted that satellite images showed that the plume drifted 200 km N then an additional 900 km NNE. The next day the plume drifted 250 km N, then turned NNW and drifted 1,450 km. According to news articles, numerous flights in and around Argentina and Chile were cancelled, as well as some flights in Uruguay.

On 27 June satellite images detected a plume that was dense for 300 m then was no longer discernable due to meteorological clouds. News outlets noted that flights in New Zealand had resumed. Ashfall was periodically reported in areas downwind, including in Riñinahue (5-10 mm of ash) Llifen, Futrono, and Curarrehue on 22 June, and Riñinahue, Pucón, and Melipeuco (in the region of Araucanía) on 25 June. Although there were no new aerial observations during 22-27 June, pulses of high-intensity tremor indicated that the lava flow remained active. The Alert Level remained at 6, Red.

Sources: Associated Press; Agence France-Presse (AFP); Big Pond News; Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC); Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

15 June-21 June 2011 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, that began on 4 June continued during 15-18 June. The seismic network detected small explosions on 15 June. The eruption plume rose 4-5 km above the crater and drifted SE. The base of the plume was dark gray and ash continued to fall in areas near the volcano. The next day the plume rose 3 km above the crater and was whiter. Satellite imagery showed the plume drifting 1,400 km ESE. On 17 June the plume rose 2 km above the crater and drifted SE. About 5 mm of ash had accumulated in Pajaritos during the night. Ashfall was also reported in eastern areas of Lago Rupanco, about 30 km SSW. According to news articles, plumes from the eruption had circumnavigated the globe, arrived in the W part of Chile (in Coyhaique, 550 km S of the volcano), and again caused domestic flights to be canceled.

On 19 June SERNAGEOMIN noted that meteorological weather prevented clear observations, although a thermal camera used during an overflight showed a thermal anomaly near the emission center. The plume rose 2 km above the crater and drifted SE. A news article stated that authorities lifted the evacuation ban for area residents, allowing them to return home. Articles also stated that flights in South Africa were disrupted during 18-19 June.

SERNAGEOMIN personnel along with regional authorities flew over Puyehue-Cordón Caulle on 20 June. They observed a viscous lava flow with concentric morphology, confirming speculation of magma ascent reflected in seismic data from the previous few days. A 50-m-wide lava flow from the emissions center had traveled 200 m NW and 100 m NE, filling up a depression. A white plume that was gray at the base rose 3-4 km above the crater. Devastated vegetation from pyroclastic flows was observed near the basin of the Nilahue and Abutment rivers. Pulses of tremor were detected by the seismic network. Cameras installed around the volcano showed the plume, which was periodically very dark, rising 5-6 km above the crater. On 21 June the plume rose 3-4 km above the crater and was dark at the base. Although there were no new aerial observations, the seismic signals indicated that the lava flow remained active. News reports noted that flights were again disrupted in parts of Australia on 21 June. SERNAGEOMIN reiterated that the Alert Level remained at 6, Red.

Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP); Associated Press; Stuff; Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN); The Telegraph

8 June-14 June 2011 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, part of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex, that began on 4 June continued on 5 June. At least five pyroclastic flows were generated from partial collapses of the eruptive column and traveled N in the Nilahue River drainage. The pyroclastic flows were possibly 10 km long. On 6 June the continuous ash plume changed direction and was blown ENE as far as 178 km while the previous portion of the plume continued to drift ESE over the ocean. On 7 June the Buenos Aires VAAC reported that ash plumes rose to altitudes of 5.5-9.8 km (18,000-32,000 ft) a.s.l. and were 65-95 km wide.

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that on 8 June satellite imagery showed a 1,200-km-long eruption plume drifting NE, then SE over the Atlantic Ocean. Personnel working in the area reported that the ash plume rose 7.5 km above the crater. On 9 June climatologic conditions prevented ground-based observations of the plume, however satellite imagery showed a 200-km-long plume drifting NE. Pumice and vitreous tephra had accumulated in many area lakes and rivers, and ash had turned many rivers darker. Despite poor visibility due to meteorological conditions on 10 June, the plume was observed to have risen 3.7 km above the crater and drifted SE. News articles stated that flight disruptions continued in Argentina and Uruguay, and flights from airports in Brazil had been cancelled. On 11 June the plume was whiter than previous days and rose to heights 4-4.5 km above the crater and drifted 350 km E. A dispersed plume was detected as far as 600 km ENE. Some flights resumed in affected parts of Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay.

An overflight on 11 June revealed that the vent was located at the head of the Nilahue River's basin, immediately to the N of the 1960 eruption fissure location. Abundant amounts of ash had accumulated around the vent as well as to the E and SW. Ash plumes rose 4-4.5 km above the crater; an explosion that day caused an ash plume to rise 8 km above the crater. On 12 June seismicity was relatively stable except for four hybrid earthquakes and a pulse of tremor that lasted about 2 hours and 40 minutes. A series of explosions (up to 8 events per minute) were also registered. Very dense, dark gray ash plumes rose 8 km above the crater. Satellite imagery showed a distinct eruption plume drifting 300 km E, with a diffuse plume reaching 1,000 km ENE. According to news articles, the ash plume that had been drifting mostly E since the beginning of the eruption had reached Australia and beyond, causing flight cancellations in southern Australia and New Zealand.

Scientists aboard an overflight on 13 June observed the plume height oscillating and noted that the eruptive vent diameter was 300-400 m. Gas-and-steam plumes rose from two or three locations along the same fissure as the eruptive vent. Pulses of tremor were associated with dark gray ash plumes that rose 9 km above the crater. Ashfall and column collapses were noted. At night incandescence from the base of the plume reached 1.5-2 km high. Satellite imagery showed the plume drifting 250 km SE. On 14 June explosions generated pyroclastic flows (that traveled N), with associated ash-and-gas plumes. Based on analysis of satellite imagery, the VAAC stated that ash plumes rose to altitudes of 5.5-7.6 km (18,000-25,000 ft) a.s.l. while previously emitted ash plumes drifted NE, E, and SE at altitudes of 0.9-3 km (3,000-10,000 ft) a.s.l. SERNAGEOMIN reiterated that the Alert Level remained at 6, Red.

Sources: BBC News; Australian Associated Press; Associated Press; Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC); Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

1 June-7 June 2011 Cite this Report

OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that between 2000 on 2 June and 1959 on 3 June about 1,450 earthquakes at Puyehue-Cordón Caulle were detected, or an average of about 60 earthquakes per hour. The earthquakes were mostly hybrid and long-period, and located in the SE sector of the Cordón Caulle rift zone at depths of 2-5 km. SERNAGEOMIN scientists along with regional authorities flew over the volcano, noting no significant changes. The Alert Level remained at 4, Yellow. Area residents reported feeling earthquakes during the evening of 3 June through the morning of 4 June.

For a six-hour period on 4 June, seismicity increased to an average of 230 earthquakes per hour, at depths of 1-4 km. About 12 events were magnitudes greater than 4, and 50 events were magnitudes greater than 3. The Alert Level was raised to 5, Red. ONEMI reported that the border crossing into Argentina was closed and about 700 local people were to start evacuating. Later, an explosion from Cordón Caulle produced a 5-km-wide ash-and-gas plume that rose to an altitude of 12.2 km (40,000 ft) a.s.l. as noted by OVDAS scientists. The plume drifted S at 5 km altitude, and W and E at 10 km altitude. The Alert Level was raised to 6, Red. ONEMI reported the continuation of evacuations and increased the potential number of evacuees to 3,000. ONEMI also reported that the National Director of SERNAGEOMIN noted that lava was not detected, but pyroclastic flow deposits were observed. Residents reported a strong sulfur odor and significant ash and pumice fall. During 4-5 June ashfall several centimeters thick was reported in San Carlos de Bariloche, 100 km SE in Argentina, and surrounding areas.

Based on analyses of satellite imagery, SIGMET notices, and information from the Puerto Montt Flight Information Region (FIR), the Buenos Aires VAAC reported that on 4 June ash plumes rose to altitudes of 10.7-13.7 km (35,000-45,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 870 km ESE. Diffuse gas-and-steam plumes drifted W. The next day an ash plume continued to rise to altitudes of 10.7-12.2 km (35,000-40,000 ft) a.s.l. and had drifted as far as 1,778 km ESE, over the coast of Argentina, and out into the Atlantic Ocean. A portion of the plume drifted WSW. News outlets reported that flights in southern Argentina were canceled during 4-5 June. On 6 June the continuous ash plume changed direction and was blown ENE as far as 178 km while the previous portion of the plume continued to drift ESE over the ocean. On 7 June the VAAC reported continuous emissions. Ash plumes rose to altitudes of 5.5-9.8 km (18,000-32,000 ft) a.s.l. and were 65-95 km wide. A large area of ash continued to drift E over the Atlantic Ocean. News articles noted that some flights in Paraguay and Chile were cancelled and about 4,000 people had evacuated. News photos showed ashfall and people collecting pumice in San Martin de los Andes, Argentina, 80 km NE.

Sources: Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC); NASA Earth Observatory; La Tercera News; Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN); Oficina Nacional de Emergencia-Ministerio del Interior (ONEMI)

27 April-3 May 2011 Cite this Report

ODVAS-SERNAGEOMIN reported that on 26 April an overflight was conducted in response to recent increased seismicity and nearby residents noting fumarolic activity in the vicinity of Puyehue-Cordón Caulle. Scientists did not observe anything unusual that would indicate increased activity at Puyehue or Cordón Caulle, just typical fumarolic activity. On 27 April a seismic swarm was detected at depths of 4-6 km; a majority of the events were hybrid earthquakes and the largest was M 3.9. Seismicity decreased but was continuing through 29 April. The Alert Level was raised to 3, Yellow.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN)

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This compilation of synonyms and subsidiary features may not be comprehensive. Features are organized into four major categories: Cones, Craters, Domes, and Thermal Features. Synonyms of features appear indented below the primary name. In some cases additional feature type, elevation, or location details are provided.

Synonyms
Ranco | Caulle Grande
Cones
Feature Name	Feature Type	Elevation	Latitude	Longitude
Golgol	Pyroclastic cone
Mencheca	Stratovolcano	1840 m	40° 32' 1" S	72° 2' 17" W
Pichi Caulle     Caulle Chico	Cone
Craters
Feature Name	Feature Type	Elevation	Latitude	Longitude
Azufral, El	Crater
Cordillera Nevada	Caldera	1799 m	40° 30' 0" S	72° 13' 0" W
Cordón Caulle     Cordillera Pelada     Cordillera del Pedregal	Fissure vent	1793 m	40° 31' 0" S	72° 12' 0" W
Gris	Crater
Nirres, Volcán los	Maar	1271 m	42° 30' 0" S	72° 1' 0" W
Pichi-Gol, Volcán	Maar	1246 m	42° 33' 40" S	72° 1' 0" W
Domes
Feature Name	Feature Type	Elevation	Latitude	Longitude
Domo del Azufre	Dome
Thermal
Feature Name	Feature Type	Elevation	Latitude	Longitude
Azufres, Los     Azufreres, Las	Thermal
Morro	Thermal
Sopas, Las	Thermal
Trahuiles	Thermal

Basic Data Volcano Number Last Known Eruption Elevation Latitude Longitude 357150 2012 CE 2,236 m / 7,336 ft 40.59°S 72.117°W Morphology Volcano Landform Composite Volcano Types Stratovolcano Caldera(s) Fissure vent(s) Pyroclastic cone(s) Lava dome(s) Rock Types Major Andesite / Basaltic Andesite Dacite Basalt / Picro-Basalt Rhyolite Tectonic Setting Subduction zone Continental crust (> 25 km) Population Within 5 km Within 10 km Within 30 km Within 100 km 129 783 7,163 515,357

Geological Summary The Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex (PCCVC) is a large NW-SE-trending late-Pleistocene to Holocene basaltic-to-rhyolitic transverse volcanic chain SE of Lago Ranco. The 1799-m-high Pleistocene Cordillera Nevada caldera lies at the NW end, separated from Puyehue stratovolcano at the SE end by the Cordón Caulle fissure complex. The Pleistocene Mencheca volcano with Holocene flank cones lies NE of Puyehue. The basaltic-to-rhyolitic Puyehue volcano is the most geochemically diverse of the PCCVC. The flat-topped, 2236-m-high volcano was constructed above a 5-km-wide caldera and is capped by a 2.4-km-wide Holocene summit caldera. Lava flows and domes of mostly rhyolitic composition are found on the E flank. Historical eruptions originally attributed to Puyehue, including major eruptions in 1921-22 and 1960, are now known to be from the Cordón Caulle rift zone. The Cordón Caulle geothermal area, occupying a 6 x 13 km wide volcano-tectonic depression, is the largest active geothermal area of the southern Andes volcanic zone. References The following references have all been used during the compilation of data for this volcano, it is not a comprehensive bibliography. Amigo, Alvaro, 2013. (pers. comm.). Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería, Programa de Riesgo Volcánico, Santiago, Chile. Casertano L, 1963. Chilean Continent. Catalog of Active Volcanoes of the World and Solfatara Fields, Rome: IAVCEI, 15: 1-55. Gerlach D C, Frey F A, Moreno H, Lopez-Escobar L, 1988. Recent volcanism in the Puyehue-Cordon Caulle region, southern Andes, Chile (40.5° S): petrogenesis of evolved lavas. J Petr, 29: 333-382. Gonzalez-Ferran O, 1995. Volcanes de Chile. Santiago: Instituto Geografico Militar, 635 p. Lara L E, Lavenu A, Cembrano J, Rodriguez C, 2006. Structural controls of volcanism in transversal chains: resheared faults and neotectonics in the Cordon Caulle-Puyehue area (40.5° S), Southern Andes. J. Volcanol. Geotherm. Res., 158: 70-86. Lara L E, Moreno H, Naranjo J A, Matthews S, Perez de Arce C, 2006. Magmatic evolution of the Puyehue-Cordon Caulle volcanic complex (40° S), Southern Andean Volcanic Zone: from shield to unusual rhyolitic fissure volcanism. J. Volcanol. Geotherm. Res., 157: 343-366. Lara L E, Naranjo J A, Moreno H, 2004. Rhyodacitic fissure eruption in Southern Andes (Cordon Caulle; 40.5° S) after the 1960 (Mw:9.5) Chilean earthquake: a structural interpretation. J. Volcanol. Geotherm. Res., 138: 127-138. Moreno H, 1974. Airplane flight over active volcanoes of central-south Chile. Internatl Symp Volc Andean & Antarctic Volc Problems Guidebook, Excur D-3, 56 p. Moreno H, Naranjo J A, 1991. The southern Andes volcanoes (33°-41° 30' S), Chile. 6th Geol Cong Chile, Excur PC-3, 26 p. Naranjo J, Singer B, Moreno H, Lara L, Jicha B, 2008. Holocene tephrochronology of Puyehue and Casablanca volcanoes, southern Andes. IAVCEI Iceland Gen Assembly, Reykjavik 2008, abs 2-a P12 and poster. Newhall C G, Dzurisin D, 1988. Historical unrest at large calderas of the world. U S Geol Surv Bull, 1855: 1108 p, 2 vol. Singer B S, Jicha B R, Haper M A, Naranjo J A, Lara L E, Moreno-Roa H, Lara L, 2008. Eruptive history, geochronology, and magmatic evolution of the Puyehue-Cordon Caulle volcanic complex, Chile. Geol Soc Amer Bull, 120: 599-618.

Eruptive History

There is data available for 26 confirmed Holocene eruptive periods.

Deformation History

There is data available for 6 deformation periods. Expand each entry for additional details.

Emission History

There is data available for 1 emission periods. Expand each entry for additional details.

Photo Gallery

Ash-laden eruption plumes rise above a fissure vent at Cordón Caulle volcano on May 24, 1960 during the latest eruption of this volcano. An eruption from the southeast end of the Cordon Caulle fissure system began 48 hrs after a major tectonic earthquake with an epicenter 300 km NW of Puyehue volcano. Tephra fell primarily to the southeast. Lava flows from numerous vents flowed mostly to the southwest. The eruption lasted until the end of June.

Photo by Oscar González-Ferrán, 1960 (University of Chile). The Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex forms the horizon in this view looking north across the Río Gol Gol valley from the Antillanca volcano group. Flat-topped 2236-m-high Puyehue volcano (right) is a late-Pleistocene to Holocene basaltic-to-rhyolitic stratovolcano constructed above a 5-km-wide caldera and capped by a 2.4-km-wide summit caldera. Historical eruptions originally attributed to Puyehue are now known to be from the Cordón Caulle rift zone, the long snow-covered ridge that extends across the photo to the left of Puyehue.

Photo by Klaus Dorsch, 2001 (University of Munich). The snow-capped Cordón Caulle volcanic massif rises on the left horizon across the Río Gol Gol valley from the Antillanca volcano group in the foreground. The Cordón Caulle is a group of post-caldera silicic vents formed along a 17-km-long, 2.5-km-wide WNW-ESE rift zone extending to the SE towards Puyehue volcano, whose flanks form the far right horizon. Historical eruptions have occurred from several points along the Cordón Caulle fissure system during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Photo by Klaus Dorsch, 2001 (University of Munich). The Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex spans 120 km² across this March 2021 Planet Labs satellite image monthly mosaic (N is at the top) with the 2.4-km-wide Puyehue caldera to the E, the Cordillera Nevada caldera near the center, and the Cordón Caulle fissure system to the W. The darker 2011-2012 Cordón Caulle obsidian lava flows extend up to around 3 km from the vents. Older fissure ridges are visible in the western segment.

Satellite image courtesy of Planet Labs Inc., 2019 (https://www.planet.com/).

GVP Map Holdings

Maps are not currently available due to technical issues.

Smithsonian Sample Collections Database

The following 3 samples associated with this volcano can be found in the Smithsonian's NMNH Department of Mineral Sciences collections, and may be availble for research (contact the Rock and Ore Collections Manager). Catalog number links will open a window with more information.

Catalog Number	Sample Description	Lava Source	Collection Date
NMNH 117555-1	Volcanic Ash	--	6 Jun 2011
NMNH 117555-2	Volcanic Ash	--	5 Nov 2011
NMNH 118178	Pumice	--	25 Dec 2011

External Sites

Copernicus Browser	The Copernicus Browser replaced the Sentinel Hub Playground browser in 2023, to provide access to Earth observation archives from the Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, the main distribution platform for data from the EU Copernicus missions.
MIROVA	Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity (MIROVA) is a near real time volcanic hot-spot detection system based on the analysis of MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) data. In particular, MIROVA uses the Middle InfraRed Radiation (MIR), measured over target volcanoes, in order to detect, locate and measure the heat radiation sourced from volcanic activity.
MODVOLC Thermal Alerts	Using infrared satellite Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data, scientists at the Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology, University of Hawai'i, developed an automated system called MODVOLC to map thermal hot-spots in near real time. For each MODIS image, the algorithm automatically scans each 1 km pixel within it to check for high-temperature hot-spots. When one is found the date, time, location, and intensity are recorded. MODIS looks at every square km of the Earth every 48 hours, once during the day and once during the night, and the presence of two MODIS sensors in space allows at least four hot-spot observations every two days. Each day updated global maps are compiled to display the locations of all hot spots detected in the previous 24 hours. There is a drop-down list with volcano names which allow users to 'zoom-in' and examine the distribution of hot-spots at a variety of spatial scales.
WOVOdat    Single Volcano View    Temporal Evolution of Unrest    Side by Side Volcanoes	WOVOdat is a database of volcanic unrest; instrumentally and visually recorded changes in seismicity, ground deformation, gas emission, and other parameters from their normal baselines. It is sponsored by the World Organization of Volcano Observatories (WOVO) and presently hosted at the Earth Observatory of Singapore. GVMID Data on Volcano Monitoring Infrastructure The Global Volcano Monitoring Infrastructure Database GVMID, is aimed at documenting and improving capabilities of volcano monitoring from the ground and space. GVMID should provide a snapshot and baseline view of the techniques and instrumentation that are in place at various volcanoes, which can be use by volcano observatories as reference to setup new monitoring system or improving networks at a specific volcano. These data will allow identification of what monitoring gaps exist, which can be then targeted by remote sensing infrastructure and future instrument deployments.
Volcanic Hazard Maps	The IAVCEI Commission on Volcanic Hazards and Risk has a Volcanic Hazard Maps database designed to serve as a resource for hazard mappers (or other interested parties) to explore how common issues in hazard map development have been addressed at different volcanoes, in different countries, for different hazards, and for different intended audiences. In addition to the comprehensive, searchable Volcanic Hazard Maps Database, this website contains information about diversity of volcanic hazard maps, illustrated using examples from the database. This site is for educational purposes related to volcanic hazard maps. Hazard maps found on this website should not be used for emergency purposes. For the most recent, official hazard map for a particular volcano, please seek out the proper institutional authorities on the matter.
IRIS seismic stations/networks	Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) Data Services map showing the location of seismic stations from all available networks (permanent or temporary) within a radius of 0.18° (about 20 km at mid-latitudes) from the given location of Puyehue-Cordón Caulle. Users can customize a variety of filters and options in the left panel. Note that if there are no stations are known the map will default to show the entire world with a "No data matched request" error notice.
UNAVCO GPS/GNSS stations	Geodetic Data Services map from UNAVCO showing the location of GPS/GNSS stations from all available networks (permanent or temporary) within a radius of 20 km from the given location of Puyehue-Cordón Caulle. Users can customize the data search based on station or network names, location, and time window. Requires Adobe Flash Player.
DECADE Data	The DECADE portal, still in the developmental stage, serves as an example of the proposed interoperability between The Smithsonian Institution's Global Volcanism Program, the Mapping Gas Emissions (MaGa) Database, and the EarthChem Geochemical Portal. The Deep Earth Carbon Degassing (DECADE) initiative seeks to use new and established technologies to determine accurate global fluxes of volcanic CO2 to the atmosphere, but installing CO2 monitoring networks on 20 of the world's 150 most actively degassing volcanoes. The group uses related laboratory-based studies (direct gas sampling and analysis, melt inclusions) to provide new data for direct degassing of deep earth carbon to the atmosphere.
Large Eruptions of Puyehue-Cordón Caulle	Information about large Quaternary eruptions (VEI >= 4) is cataloged in the Large Magnitude Explosive Volcanic Eruptions (LaMEVE) database of the Volcano Global Risk Identification and Analysis Project (VOGRIPA).
EarthChem	EarthChem develops and maintains databases, software, and services that support the preservation, discovery, access and analysis of geochemical data, and facilitate their integration with the broad array of other available earth science parameters. EarthChem is operated by a joint team of disciplinary scientists, data scientists, data managers and information technology developers who are part of the NSF-funded data facility Integrated Earth Data Applications (IEDA). IEDA is a collaborative effort of EarthChem and the Marine Geoscience Data System (MGDS).