Changes in the Long-Term Geophysical Eruptive Precursors at Piton de la Fournaise: Implications for the Response Management

A study of Piton de la Fournaise volcano reveals significant changes in long-term geophysical eruptive precursors, such as seismicity and ground displacements, which occur days to weeks before eruptions. These changes, observed between 1998 and 2017 (43 eruptions), are linked to the pre- and post-summit caldera formation in April 2007 and shifts in deep magma refilling processes since 2016. The research highlights the impact of these variations on early warning systems, leading to false or late alerts. This insight has prompted improvements in alert protocols and more effective communication between scientists and decision-makers, enhancing crisis management at the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Peltier, A., Villeneuve, N., Ferrazzini, V., Testud, S., Hassen Ali, T., Boissier, P., & Catherine, P. (2018). Changes in the Long-Term Geophysical Eruptive Precursors at Piton de la Fournaise: Implications for the Response Management. Frontiers in Earth Science, 6. https://doi.org/10.3389/feart.2018.00104