Report on Batu Tara (Indonesia) — 1 October-7 October 2008
Smithsonian / US Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report, 1 October-7 October 2008
Managing Editor: Sally Kuhn Sennert
Please cite this report as:
Global Volcanism Program, 2008. Report on Batu Tara (Indonesia). In: Sennert, S K (ed.), Weekly Volcanic Activity Report, 1 October-7 October 2008. Smithsonian Institution and US Geological Survey.
Batu Tara
Indonesia
7.791°S, 123.585°E; summit elev. 633 m
All times are local (unless otherwise noted)
Based on analysis of satellite imagery, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 3-4 October a low-level ash plume from Batu Tara drifted W and NW.
Geologic Background. The small isolated island of Batu Tara in the Flores Sea about 50 km N of Lembata (fomerly Lomblen) Island contains a scarp on the eastern side similar to the Sciara del Fuoco of Italy's Stromboli volcano. Vegetation covers the flanks to within 50 m of the summit. Batu Tara lies north of the main volcanic arc and is noted for its potassic leucite-bearing basanitic and tephritic rocks. The first historical eruption, during 1847-52, produced explosions and a lava flow.
