Analogue modeling of flank instability at Mount Etna: Understanding the driving factors

Magmatic activity—such as reservoir pressurization and dike intrusion—is the dominant driver of flank instability at Mount Etna, amplifying seaward deformation by up to 10 times compared to other volcanic flanks. This finding emerges from analogue modeling using granular materials to simulate the volcano's structure and silicone/vegetable oil injections to mimic magmatic processes. The study also reveals that regional extensional tectonics and crustal layering contribute significantly less, with effects less than one-tenth as strong. Differential buttressing at the volcano's base, particularly on the seaside, further exacerbates instability. These insights highlight the asymmetric nature of volcanic activity, offering critical implications for predicting flank eruptions and deformation in similar volcanic systems.

Norini, G., & Acocella, V. (2011). Analogue modeling of flank instability at Mount Etna: Understanding the driving factors. Journal of Geophysical Research, 116(B7). https://doi.org/10.1029/2011jb008216