Vulcano island: the new high resolution digital surface model post 2021-2022 volcanic unrest

Area of Science:

• Geosciences
• Volcanology
• Geomorphology

Background:

• Vulcano island experienced a significant volcanic crisis in 2021-2022, marked by increased fumarolic activity, seismicity, and ground deformation.
• A detailed understanding of the island's surface post-crisis is crucial for monitoring and hazard assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a highly detailed 3D Digital Surface Model (DSM) of Vulcano island.
• To provide an accurate topographic dataset for geomorphological investigations and natural hazard assessment.

Main Methods:

• An Airborne Lidar survey was conducted on August 4, 2023.
• Processing over 200 million 3D Lidar points to generate a 50 cm spatial resolution DSM.
• Validation using Ground Control Points.

Main Results:

• A new DSM of Vulcano island was created with 50 cm spatial resolution.
• Achieved a vertical accuracy of 8 cm, suitable for detailed analysis.
• The DSM captures all natural and anthropic surface features.

Conclusions:

• The high-resolution and accurate DSM is ideal for detailed geomorphological studies.
• This updated 3D topography is essential for assessing volcanic activity changes, seismic risks, and landslide potential.
• The model provides a crucial baseline for future monitoring and hazard management on Vulcano island.