A review framework of how earthquakes trigger volcanic eruptions

Area of Science:

• Geosciences
• Volcanology
• Seismology

Background:

• The link between tectonic earthquakes and volcanic activity is established but poorly understood.
• Existing knowledge on earthquake-induced volcanic processes requires further refinement.
• Volcanic systems are complex, involving magma, gas, and hydrothermal components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current understanding of earthquake-triggered volcanic activity.
• To introduce a novel framework for characterizing seismic triggering mechanisms at volcanoes.
• To identify key volcanic parameters influencing susceptibility to seismic triggers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing research on earthquake-volcano interactions.
• Development of a classification framework based on observable volcanic parameters.
• Analysis of magma viscosity, degassing (open/closed system), and hydrothermal system presence.

Main Results:

• A framework is proposed using magma viscosity, degassing, and hydrothermal activity to classify volcanic susceptibility.
• Most volcano types can be seismically triggered, depending on specific volcanic and seismic conditions.
• Seismic triggering is unlikely unless the volcanic system is already primed for eruption.
• Seismically-triggered volcanic unrest is more frequent than eruptions, especially in systems with hydrothermal activity.

Conclusions:

• The proposed framework provides a new method for assessing earthquake-triggering potential in volcanoes.
• Volcanic system conditions (magma, degassing, hydrothermal) are critical for seismic triggering.
• Understanding these parameters is key to predicting volcanic responses to seismic events.