Trees seem to warn of volcanic eruptions in advance, and Canadian scientists explain how they do it

And this is a scientific discovery It could change the way we monitor volcanic activityThis was discovered by researchers at McGill University in Canada Greener trees can act as natural sentinelsso much so that they can predict years in advance when The volcano is about to explode.

This innovative method could allow critical anticipation to prepare for and mitigate potential risks associated with volcanic eruptions.

This is how the study was conducted

The research team, led by Robert Pogue, Focus on observing plant patterns in Yellowstone National ParkIn the United States, using satellite images collected over nearly four decades, from 1984 to 2022. His approach was mainly based on changing the color of plants. As an indicator of volcanic activity.

Historically, Carbon dioxide emissions have always been a kind of signal that reveals volcanic activityAlthough it's not that simple, especially if you try to measure it in remote areas with dense vegetation.

To overcome this limitation, scientists have observed that plants respond directly to changes in volcanic activity. In the period leading up to the eruption, increased carbon dioxide stimulates plant growth, leading to… Greener color in satellite images.

On the other side, When volcanic activity reaches its peakPlants suffer from sulfur dioxide and high temperatures. It manifests itself in a more brown tone.

Effective results for detecting volcanic activity

The results of this investigation were published in the journal “Geochemistry, geophysics, geological systems“, She notes that monitoring plant health through satellites could provide early warning of volcanic activity.

This approach can be particularly effective in monitoring stratovolcanoes Cone-shaped and located in forest areasSuch as Taal Volcano in the Philippines, or Etna Volcano in Italy.

Benefits of being able to predict eruptions like those in La Palma or Iceland

The potential of this technology to transform volcanic monitoring is great. Early detection of changes in vegetation health can provide local communities, as well as scientists and disaster management authorities, with An almost infallible tool for anticipating and responding to volcanic threats.

Let's imagine how the panorama would have changed on September 21, 2021, when La Palma volcano erupted. If it could have been predicted in advance, or the recent eruption of the volcano in Grindavik, Iceland.

Pending global implementation

The scientific community is eagerly awaiting validation of these discoveries around the world The possibility of implementing this revolutionary method in other volcanic areas of the world.

The ability to anticipate volcanic eruptions and prepare for them early It can save lives and Reducing destructive effects associated with these natural events.