Conceptualizing a multi‐layered shingle aquifer model based on volcanic stratigraphy and water inflow to lava caves in Jeju Island, Korea

A multi-layered shingle aquifer model, constrained by volcanic stratigraphy and palaeosol layers, has been conceptualized for Jeju Island's lava tube caves. This model reveals that water inflow to caves is primarily driven by storm-induced discharge from exposed palaeosol layers on cave walls, rather than ceiling drips. Monthly monitoring over a year confirmed the substantial contribution of wall inflow, with rapid drainage through cave floors observed at all sites. The study identified the lateral extent of palaeosol layers using drill core logs and coastal outcrops, suggesting that multiple perched aquifers form between lava flows during volcanic hiatuses, connected vertically by discontinuities in these low-permeability layers. This model improves understanding of groundwater recharge, flow, and contaminant transport in volcanic aquifers, offering a more accurate representation than previous models and aiding in better groundwater management.

Ahn, U. S., Koh, D.-C., Heo, J., Cho, B.-W., Kim, T., & Yum, B.-W. (2021). Conceptualizing a multi‐layered shingle aquifer model based on volcanic stratigraphy and water inflow to lava caves in Jeju Island, Korea. Hydrological Processes, 35(8). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/hyp.14316