Famous volcanoes of the world on the map. Yellowstone eruptions in the past. Old and young volcanoes

Despite their lethality, various volcanoes have long attracted man. Previously, people were attracted by fertile soils enriched with minerals and trace elements due to the activity of volcanoes, now tourists are attracted by the beauty and majesty of these natural objects.

Where are the largest volcanoes on the world map?

Most of modern active volcanoes located in Pacific volcanic ring- area in which nai large quantity eruptions and 90% of earthquakes on our planet.

The second most powerful seismic zone is the Mediterranean fold belt, stretching from the Indonesian islands to.

The strongest eruption in history

The most destructive eruption in terms of its consequences is considered to be a catastrophe that occurred in 1883 during an explosion. Krakatoa volcano located in . During this cataclysm, more than 36 thousand people died, more than 165 cities and villages were completely destroyed, and ash was thrown to a height of 70 kilometers.

The force of the explosion during the eruption exceeded the force of the nuclear bomb explosion over Hiroshima by 10,000 times. Most of the deaths are the result of huge tsunami caused by the eruption. The island on which Krakatoa was located was almost completely destroyed during the disaster. The sound from the explosion spread to a distance of 5 thousand kilometers from the epicenter of the disaster.

Earth's Greatest Active Volcanic Mountains

The largest active volcanoes in the world in terms of volume:

• mauna loa, Hawaii, with a volume of 80 thousand cubic kilometers;
• kilimanjaro(Tanzania), which is considered dormant but potentially active, has a volume of 4,800 cubic kilometers;
• Volcano Sierra Negra located on Galapagos Islands(Ecuador) has a volume of 580 cubic kilometers.

Which country has the largest source of lava?

Unmatched in size Hawaiian volcano Mauna Loa, which has a volume of 80 thousand cubic kilometers. The title of the highest is contested by 2 volcanoes from South America:

1. Llullaillaco, located on the border of Argentina and Chile with a height of more than 6 thousand meters;
2. Cotopaxi, located in Ecuador with a height of 5897 meters.

Description with titles

There are between 1000 and 1500 active volcanoes on our planet. Many of them are located close to densely populated areas and pose a threat to human life. The most dangerous volcanoes, which are under special supervision, are included in List of Volcanoes of the United Nations Decade.

Merapi

Merapi, which in Indonesian means "mountain of fire", recognized as one of the most dangerous volcanoes in Asia. It is located in the south of the island of Java in Indonesia, and its peak rises to a height of 3 thousand meters.

Significant eruptions of Merapi occur with a frequency of about 7 years; during its history, Merapi has repeatedly caused the death of many people. In 1930, 1400 people became victims of the eruption, and in 2010 more than 350 thousand people had to be evacuated, 353 inhabitants of the island died.

Located near Merapi Yogyakarta city, in the agglomeration of which more than 2 million people live. For its activity and danger to people's lives, Merapi is included in the list of Volcanoes of the Decade.

Sakurajima

Sakurazdima volcano (Japan) is located on Kyushu island, its peak rises to a height of 1110 meters. The first eruption recorded by the chronicles occurred in 963, and the most powerful one dates back to 1914, but thanks to the tremors preceding it, most of the local residents managed to evacuate, “only” 35 people died.

Since the middle of the 20th century, the volcano has been constantly active. Every year there are thousands of small explosions and ash emissions.

In 2013, there was a large ash ejection, reaching a height of 4000 meters.

Sakurajima is also on the Volcanoes of the Decade list.

Aso

Aso Volcano is also located on Kyushu island in Japan. The highest point of Aso is at an altitude of 1592 meters. During the observation of the volcano, about 165 large and medium-sized eruptions occurred, many of which led to human casualties.

Last time people died as a result of volcanic eruptions in 1979, when 3 people died and 11 were injured. But Aso is dangerous not only for its eruptions, poisonous vapors of volcanic gas regularly poison tourists who try to conquer Aso. The last such incident occurred in 1997, when two climbers died.

The last eruption of Aso was noted in 2011, when ash was ejected to a height of up to 2 kilometers.

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Nyiragongo

Nyiragongo is located in DR Congo V mountain system Virunga (Africa). In the crater of the volcano is the world's largest lava lake, the depth of which can reach 3 kilometers. In 1977, the crater wall ruptured, resulting in a major lava flow to the surrounding area, resulting in the death of 70 people.

During observations of Nyiragongo since 1882, it was recorded 34 major volcanic eruptions. A feature of the Nyiragongo eruptions is an extremely fast flow of lava, reaching a speed of 100 kilometers per hour. During a major eruption in 2002, 400,000 residents of the city of Goma, located near the volcano, were evacuated. Nevertheless, 147 of them died as a result of this cataclysm, and the city itself received significant damage.

All these factors make Nyiragongo one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world, for which he was rightly included in the list of Volcanoes of the Decade.

Galeras

Galeras volcano is located in Colombia near the city of Pasto, whose population is more than 400 thousand people. Its height exceeds 4200 meters. Due to its danger, Galeras has been included in the list of Volcanoes of the Decade that pose the greatest threat in the foreseeable future.

It is believed that over the past 7000 years, Galeras has experienced at least 6 major eruptions, in 1993 the last of them was recorded.

mauna loa

Mauna Loa Volcano is located on Hawaiian Islands owned by the United States of America. This giant volcano occupies more than half of the area of ​​Hawaii, the height of the peak above sea level is 4169 meters, but most of the volcano is located under water. Together with the underwater part, its height from the base to the top reaches 9170 meters, which exceeds the height of Everest.

Mauna Loa eruptions occur along the so-called Hawaiian type with an outpouring of lava, but without explosions and large ash emissions. Observations of the volcano have been conducted only since 1832, but during this time 39 major eruptions of Mauna Loa were recorded. This volcano was included in the list of Volcanoes of the Decade due to the huge lava flows that accompany the eruption and the densely populated area in its immediate vicinity.

The top of the volcano and its slopes are included in the list world heritage UNESCO.

Colima

Most active volcano V Central America located in the state of Jalisco. Due to its activity, Colima received the nickname "little Vesuvius", its height exceeds 3800 meters.

Over the past 450 years, more than 40 large and medium-sized volcanic eruptions have been recorded, the last of which occurred on September 12, 2016. More than 400 thousand people live near Colima, which makes it America's most dangerous volcano. For this reason, the volcano was included in the Volcanoes of the Decade list.

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Vesuvius

Most famous volcano the world is located on peninsula V . The lone peak of Vesuvius, 1281 meters high, rises above the spacious fields of the province of Campania and is part of the Apennine mountain system.

Located just 15 kilometers from Naples, Vesuvius has repeatedly entered history with its catastrophic eruptions, about 80 large ones alone were recorded. In 79 AD, there was the most destructive eruption of Vesuvius, during which famous cities were killed:

• Pompeii;
• Oplontis;
• Herculaneum;
• Stabiae.

It is believed that at least 16,000 people died during this cataclysm.

In 1944, the last this moment the eruption of Vesuvius, cities were destroyed during this natural disaster Weight And San Sebastiano, 27 people became victims. Since then, Vesuvius has not shown much activity, but the danger of a new eruption always remains. Vesuvius is one of the main attractions of the province of Campania and its visit is included in sightseeing tour when traveling to Naples.

Etna

Another famous volcano in Italy is located in the east of the island of Sicily and is highest volcano, rising to a height of 2329 meters. Etna eruptions are observed several times a year. History has recorded several major eruptions of this volcano, which led to devastating consequences:

1. Destroyed in 122 AD city ​​of Catania;
2. In 1169, Etna died during a massive eruption. 15 thousand people;
3. In 1669, Catania suffered again, houses were destroyed 27 thousand people;
4. In 1928, the ancient Mascali city.

Despite the danger of the volcano, the inhabitants of the island continue to settle on its slopes. The reason for this is fertile soil, enriched with minerals and trace elements contained in the cooled lava flows and ash.

Etna is one of the main natural attractions of Sicily. Tourists from all over the world come to see the volcano and climb to its top.

popocatepetl

Volcano Popocatepetl, or El Popo, as the locals affectionately call it, is located in Mexico, 70 kilometers from the capital of this country, the city of Mexico City. The height of the volcano is almost 5500 meters. Over the past 500 years, Popocatepetl has erupted more than 15 times, with the latest occurring as recently as 2015. Near Popocatepetl is located dormant volcano Istaxihuatl.

A trip to these volcanoes is an essential part of excursion program when visiting Mexico City.

Klyuchevskaya Sopka

The highest volcano in Eurasia is located on the Kamchatka Peninsula and is considered the most famous of the many volcanoes in Kamchatka. Highest point outside Caucasus mountains reaches a height of 4750 meters. It is the most active volcano in Eurasia, on average its eruptions occur almost every year. The last significant eruption occurred in 2013, the height of the ash emission was 10-12 kilometers. The eruption was accompanied by mud flows and ashfall.

Cotopaxi

The active volcano Cotopaxi is located in South America on the territory of the state Ecuador in the Andean mountain system. The height of the top of Cotopaxi is 5897 meters. Over the entire history of observations, 86 eruptions have been recorded, the largest of which led to the complete destruction of the city of Latacunga in 1786. The last activity of Cotopaxi was seen in 1942, after which the volcano is still dormant.

Famous extinct giants

In addition to active volcanoes, there are many extinct volcanoes on our planet that do not show volcanic activity.

Supreme

The tallest extinct volcano in the world aconcagua, is located in Argentina and is part of the Andes mountain system. Aconcagua is not only the highest extinct volcano in the world, but also the most high peak America, Western and Southern Hemispheres. The height of Aconcagua exceeds 6950 meters.

sleeping giants

Many extinct volcanoes are now considered just mountains, although some of them could potentially “wake up” and begin to show activity. Such volcanoes, which may become active in the future, are called "asleep".

• famous Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania (Africa) is a dormant volcano that does not show active activity. Scientists believe that one day Kilimanjaro may wake up, then this potential volcano will become one of the highest in the world, because the height of Kilimanjaro is 5895 meters above sea level.

colossal supervolcano yellowstone considered extinct, but scientists have found that there is little activity in it, so now Yellowstone is categorized as dormant volcanoes. The last time the giant erupted almost a million years ago.

It is believed that if Yellowstone wakes up, the potential eruption will become one of the largest disasters in the history of the Earth, every third inhabitant of the planet will die, and several US states will be completely destroyed.

Yellowstone eruption cause many earthquakes giant waves tsunamis and other volcanic eruptions, which will affect almost every inhabitant of the planet. The ash thrown out by the volcano will cover the surface of the earth from the sun for a year and a half, and a volcanic winter will come throughout the planet.

However, not all scientists believe that the consequences of this cataclysm will be so serious. In any case, the eruption of this volcano remains one of the main potential threats to humans.

• The largest extinct volcano in Russia - - 5642 meters. It is located on the border of the republics of Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia. Refers to the list of the highest peaks of the six parts of the world. Scientists consider the activity of the volcano not so much completed as fading.
• The largest volcano of our time cannot be visited and is very difficult to see, as it is under water. array Tamu located at the bottom Pacific Ocean and is located about 1600 kilometers east of Japanese islands. Its dimensions are 650 by 450 kilometers; in terms of its scale, the array is one of the largest not only on Earth, but in the entire solar system. The last volcanic eruption occurred 140 million years ago.
• dormant volcanoes Big and Small Ararat are now located on the territory and belong to the category of volcanoes that do not show volcanic activity. The top of Mount Ararat, reaching 5165 meters, is the highest point in Turkey.
• One of the highest peaks of the Caucasus, Mount Kazbek is also an extinct volcano. Kazbek is located on the border with Russia, the highest point of the mountain is located at an altitude of more than 5 kilometers. During research, volcanic ash from an eruption that allegedly occurred 40 thousand years ago was found in one of the caves of Kazbek.

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Watch a video about these and other volcanoes in the world:

Volcanoes are one of the most magnificent wonders on earth. Their beauty is truly dangerous, as they can bring death to everything around them. Hot lava and volcanic bombs can easily wipe out everything that gets in their way, including the largest cities. For many millennia, mankind has already managed to verify the incredible power of active volcanoes. For example, Vesuvius, which took thousands of human lives and destroyed the largest cities of that era (Pompeii, Stabia, Herculaneus).

The article describes largest volcanoes in the world. This list includes volcanoes from different corners world, regardless of seismological activity. The main criterion for selection was their height.

10 Mauna Loa

Opens the top 10 most big volcanoes the world of Mauna Loa. This is one of the active megavolcanoes, which is located in the central part of the island of Hawaii. It is second only to the Tamu Massif in its volume. Its height is over four thousand meters. Scientists suggest that Mauna Loa originated over seven hundred thousand years ago. Today it is considered an active volcano.

Mauna Loa has an irregular thyroid shape with gentle slopes. In the vicinity of the volcano, you can find many species of rare plants and wild animals. The mountain and lands from the southeastern part are included in the reserve.

On the eastern side of the Andes mountain system is one of the most major volcanoes on the planet - active volcano Sangay. It has a steep conical shape, and numerous layers of lava and tephra can be seen on its top. The uniqueness of this volcano lies in the presence of three craters. On the territory of the mountain and its nearby territory, a national natural Park, which belongs to the list of protected areas of UNESCO.

Scientists suggest that the Sangay volcano formed about 14 thousand years ago. Its height is over 5 thousand meters. From the 1930s to the present day, Sangai is characterized by very frequent periods of activity. The first recorded volcanic eruption was in 1628.

8 Huila Volcano

Huila Old Volcano is the most big volcano in Colombia, whose height is 5365 meters. It has a sharp elongated shape. Huila was thought to be dormant for many years, and after fifty years he began to show signs of activity. In the period from 2007 to the present day, more than 7 thousand small seismic events have occurred. The last eruption was recorded in 2011. Huila poses a great danger to the inhabitants of the four regions that are in its vicinity.

This volcano and its surrounding areas are home to many species of wild animals. The rich flora and fauna is due to the presence of numerous water sources, which were formed due to the convergence of snow from the top of the mountain.

7. Popocatepetl

In the Mexican highlands is one of the largest active stratovolcanoes in the world - Popocatepetl. Its height is 5426 meters. The name of the volcano comes from the Nahuatl language, which means "Smoking Hill". Next to it is Mount Istaxuatl. These two hills got their names thanks to the legend. In it, the Aztecs told about unhappy love, where the girl was given in marriage to another. This happened because her parents did not wait until their daughter's beloved returned from the campaign. Soon the girl committed suicide. After some time, the warrior returned home with a victory, but did not find his beloved alive. The guy could not measure up with the loss and also committed suicide. At their sign eternal love the gods turned the lovers into two mountains.

6. Orizaba

Orizaba is the highest peak in Mexico and one of the most huge volcanoes in the world. Its height above sea level is 5675 meters. locals called the volcano Sitlaltepetl. This, translated from one of the Aztec languages, means "mountain of the star."

At the moment, the volcano is at rest, but it has not completely died out. About 27 eruptions have been documented, the last of which was observed in 1846.

In 1936, a conservation park was created, which included the mountain, the surrounding areas and the settlement. Square protected area is almost 20 thousand hectares.

Over thirty years ago, there were about 14 glaciers on the top of the volcano. In connection with the problem of global warming, their number has decreased. To date, there are 9 of them. The largest of them is the Gran Norte with an area of ​​9 sq. km.

5. Misty

Misty is the largest active volcano in South America. It is located in the southern part of Peru. Its actual height is 5822 meters above sea level. Not far from the hill is the city of Arequina, which is home to more than 1 million people. Most of the city's buildings are built from pyroclastic deposits of the volcano.

In the shape of a cone, Misty is a stratovolcano. It is characterized by explosive eruptions, which alternate with the outflow of lava. One of the features of the volcano is the presence of three concentric craters. In the 15th century, very strong eruptions were observed. The most recent seismological activity was documented in 1985.

4. Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro is the highest African volcano. It is located in the northeastern part of Tanzania. Including glaciers, its height is 5895 meters. Kilimanjaro, like most of the largest volcanoes in the world, is dormant. At the moment, local residents are observing little seismological activity. Kilimanjaro has a conical shape and consists of three craters.

There are many theories that explain the origin of the name in different ways. From the Swahili language, the name of the volcano is translated as "mountain that sparkles."

Despite the fact that Kilimanjaro is an inactive volcano, many scientists visit it every year. The top of the volcano is covered with a huge snow cap, which has been formed there since ice age. Due to global warming, its volume has sharply decreased over the past century.

3. Cotopaxi

In the list of the largest volcanoes in the world, Cotopaxi ranks third. The height of the volcano is 5911 meters, it is located in Ecuador on the western side of the Eastern Cordillera. Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is located just 50 kilometers from Cotopaxi.

The peak of the activity of the volcano fell on the XVII-XVIII century. The last eruption occurred quite recently - in 2015.

Cotopaxi in Quechua means "shiny or smoking mountain". Sometimes small puffs of smoke can be seen above its mouth, which are formed due to the release of water and sulfur. Since the volcano is dormant, its summit is covered with a thick layer of glaciers and snow.

2. San Pedro

San Pedro, with a height of 6145 meters, is the largest stratovolcano in the Andes mountain system. The cone of the volcano is formed by basalt and andesite layers. The last seismic activity was observed in the 60s of the last century. In the summer of 1903, the first documented ascent to the summit of the mountain was made.

Not far from San Pedro is the volcano San Pablo. Outwardly, they look like two brothers who are connected with each other with the help of a high saddle.

1. Lullaillaco

Llullagliaco is the largest volcano on Earth. Its height is 6739 meters. It is located on the high plateau of Puna de Atacama, between Argentina and Chile.

To date, Llyullaco is in a dormant state. The last period of activity was documented in 1877. Now quite often you can see how smoke is emitted from its muzzle.

The very first documented ascent to the summit of Llullagliaco took place in 1952. During the expedition, archaeologists found an ancient sanctuary belonging to the Incas. A more thorough examination of the slopes of the mountain revealed several mummies, which were most likely sacrificed to the gods.

Active and extinct volcanoes have always attracted people. People settled on the volcanic slopes to engage in agriculture, because the volcanic soil is very fertile.

Today, majestic geological formations attract crowds of tourists who want to admire their beauty.

Thirsty for extreme sports are not stopped even by the most dangerous natural objects- active volcanoes.

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List of active volcanoes in the world

Today we will look at where there are active volcanoes in the world. Most of them are located along the coast. This zone is called the Pacific Ring of Fire. The second most volcanic zone is the Mediterranean belt.

In total, there are about 900 active volcanoes on land.

About 60 geological formations of the earth explode every year. Consider the most dangerous of the active, as well as a few impressive, but dormant.

Merapi, Indonesia

Merapi is the most impressive, nicknamed the "Mountain of Fire". It is located on about. Java, reaches a height of 2914 m. Large-scale emissions are carried out every 7 years, and small ones twice a year. Smoke constantly comes out of its crater. One of the most significant tragedies associated with activity broke out in 1006. Then a ferocious element destroyed the Javanese-Indian state of Mataram.

In 1673, another powerful eruption broke out, as a result of which the towns and villages located at the foot were destroyed. In 1930, volcanic eruptions killed 1,300 people.

The last release of Merapi occurred in 2010, when 350,000 people needed to be evacuated. Some of them decided to return and died in the lava flow. 353 people suffered then.

That last disaster The fiery mountain threw out a mixture of ash and gas at a speed of 100 km / h, while the temperature reached 1000 ° C.

Sakurajima, Japan

Sakurajima is located on about. Kyushu. Once the mountain stood separately, but in one of the eruptions, with the help of lava, it joined the Osumi Peninsula. It rises to a height of 1117 m. It consists of three peaks, the highest of which is the northern one.

The activity of Sakurajima increases every year, and until 1946 there were only 6 releases. It has been erupting continuously since 1955.

Note: one of major disasters occurred in 1914, when the elements claimed the lives of 35 people. In 2013, 1097 emissions of insignificant force were recorded, and in 2014 - 471.

Aso, Japan

Aso is another volcanic giant about. Kyushu. Its height is 1592 m. This is a caldera, in the middle of which there are 17 cones. The most active of them is Nakadake.

Aso last erupted lava in 2011. Since then, there have been about 2500 aftershocks. In 2016, the ejection process was accompanied by an earthquake.

It is worth noting: despite the danger associated with the extreme activity of Aso, about 50 thousand people live in the caldera, and the crater itself has become a popular object of active tourism. In winter, skiing is possible on the slopes of Aso.

Nyiragongo, Republic of the Congo

Nyiragongo belongs to the Virunga mountain system, is the most active in Africa. The height is 3470 m. In its crater there is a huge bubbling lava lake, the largest in the world. During an eruption, lava flows out almost completely, destroying everything around in a matter of hours. After that, it fills the crater again. Due to the military situation in the Republic of the Congo, the crater has not yet been sufficiently explored.

Since the end of the 19th century alone, 34 eruptions of the formidable Nyiragongo have been noted. Its lava is very liquid because it does not contain enough silicates. For this reason, it spreads rapidly, reaching a speed of 100 km / h. This feature makes Nyiragongo one of the most dangerous on the planet. In 1977, a huge mass of lava hit the nearby town. The cause was the rupture of the crater wall. The disaster claimed the lives of several hundred people.

In 2002, another large-scale eruption occurred, then 400 thousand people were evacuated, 147 of whom died. Despite the fact that this Nyiragongo is considered the most dangerous in the world, about half a million people live in nearby settlements.

Galeras, Colombia

It rises above the Colombian town of Pasto, with about 500 thousand inhabitants. Galeras reaches a height of 4276 m. last years Galeras is constantly active, throwing out volcanic ash.

One of the largest eruptions was recorded in 1993. The element led to the death of 6 volcanologists and 3 tourists in the crater. The disaster came unexpectedly, after a long lull.

One of the recent eruptions occurred in August 2010. Colombian authorities periodically evacuate local residents as Galeras is active.

Colima, Mexico

Spread Colima on the Pacific coast. Consists of 2 peaks, one of which is extinct. In 2016, Colima became active, releasing a column of ash.

The last time he reminded of himself was on January 19, 2017. At the time of the disaster, a cloud of ash and smoke rose 2 km.

Vesuvius, Italy

Vesuvius is the most famous volcanic giant in continental Europe. It is located in Italy, 15 km from.

Vesuvius has 3 cones. Strong eruptions alternate with periods of low power activity. Throws out a huge amount of ash and gases. In 79, Vesuvius shook all of Italy, destroying the cities of Pompeii and Stabia. They were covered with a thick layer of ash, reaching up to 8 m. The city of Herculaneum was flooded with mud flows, as mud rains accompanied the eruption.

In 1631, an eruption was noted that claimed the lives of 4,000 people. It turned out to be weaker than in 79, but the slopes of Vesuvius have since been inhabited by more people, which led to such victims. The volcano after this event became lower by 168 m. The eruption of 1805 destroyed almost the entire Naples and claimed the lives of 26 thousand people.

The last time Vesuvius erupted lava flows in 1944, leveling the cities of San Sebastiano and Massa. The number of victims was 27 people. After that, the volcano subsided. A volcano observatory was built here to track its activities.

Etna, Italy

Etna is the highest volcano in Europe. It is located in the northern hemisphere in the east of Sicily. Its height changes after each eruption, now it is 3429 m above sea level.

Etna has, according to various estimates, 200-400 side craters. Every 3 months, one of them erupts. Quite often, this leads to the destruction of villages, spread out nearby.

Despite the dangers, the Sicilians densely populate the slopes of Etna. It even created a national park.

Popocatepetl, Mexico

The second highest peak in Mexico, its name means "smoking hill". It is located 70 km from Mexico City. The height of the mountain is 5500 meters.

Over 500 years, Popocatepetl has erupted lava over 15 times, the last time it happened in 2015.

Klyuchevskaya Sopka, Russia

This is the highest peak of Kamchatka. Its height ranges from 4750-4850 m above sea level. The slopes are covered with lateral craters, of which there are more than 80.

Klyuchevskaya Sopka reminds of itself every 3 years, each of its activity lasts several months and is sometimes accompanied by ashfalls. by the most active year turned out to be 2016, when the volcano exploded 55 times.

The most devastating was the catastrophe of 1938, when activity Klyuchevskoy Sopka lasted 13 months.

Mauna Loa, Hawaii, USA

Mauna Loa can be found in the central part of the island of Hawaii. It rises to 4169 m above sea level. Mauna Loa is of the Hawaiian type.

Its characteristic feature is the outpouring of lava, passing without explosions and ash emissions. Lava erupts through the central vent, cracks and fractures.

Cotopaxi, Ecuador

Cotopaxi belongs to the Andes mountain system. This is the second highest peak, rising to 5911 m.

The first eruption was recorded in 1534. The eruption had the most devastating consequences in 1768. Then the ejection of lava and sulfur was accompanied by an earthquake. The disaster destroyed the city of Latacunga with its surroundings. The eruption was so strong that traces of it were found in the Amazon basin.

Iceland

There are about three dozen volcanoes on the island of Iceland. Among them there are long-extinct ones, but there are also active ones.

This island is the only one in the world where so many geological formations are located. Icelandic territory is a real volcanic plateau.

Extinct and dormant volcanoes

Volcanoes that have lost their activity are extinct and dormant. It is safe to visit them, so these sites are more popular among travelers. On the map, such geological formations are marked with black asterisks, in contrast to active ones, marked with red asterisks.

What is the difference between an extinct and dormant volcano? Extinct ones do not show active activity for at least 1 million years. Presumably, their magma has already cooled down and will not be able to explode. True, volcanologists do not exclude that a new volcano may form in their place.

Aconcagua, Argentina

Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Andes. It rises to 6960.8 m. The mountain was formed at the junction of the Nazca and South American lithospheric plates. Today the slopes of the mountain are covered with glaciers.

Aconcagua is of interest to climbers as the highest peak in South America, as well as the highest extinct volcano.

Kilimanjaro, Africa

If someone is asked to name the most high mountain Africa, then he will name - the most famous mountain on the African mainland. It consists of 3 peaks, the highest of them is Kibo (5,891.8 m).

Kilimanjaro is considered dormant, now only gases and sulfur come out of its crater. It is expected to be active when the mountain collapses, leading to massive eruption. Scientists consider the peak of Kibo to be the most formidable.

Yellowstone, USA

Yellowstone is located on the territory of the same name national park. The top belongs to the supervolcanoes, of which there are 20 on Earth. Yellowstone is extremely dangerous because it erupts with incredible force, and can affect the planet's climate.

Yellowstone has erupted three times. The last eruption took place 640 thousand years ago, at the same time a caldera cavity was formed.

At this volcano, lava accumulates in a special reservoir, where it melts the surrounding rocks, becoming thicker. This reservoir is very close to the surface, which worries volcanologists.

The eruption is stopped by water flows that cool the magma bubble and break out in the form of geysers. Since there is still a lot of energy left inside the bubble, it is expected to burst out in the near future.

The US authorities are taking all measures to prevent the eruption of Yellowstone, because it can kill 87 thousand people. One of the projects is the installation of a geothermal station, but this will require drilling wells that can provoke a catastrophe not only in the country, but on the entire planet.

Elbrus, Russia

The Caucasian peak is attractive for climbers today. Its height is 5621 m. This is a dormant formation in which volcanic processes occur. The last eruption took place presumably 1.7 thousand years ago, 500 years ago it released a column of ash.

The activity of Elbrus is evidenced by geothermal springs located nearby. Scientists disagree on when to expect the next eruption, but it is known for sure that it will lead to the convergence of the mudflow.

Big and Small Ararat, Türkiye

Big Ararat (5165 m) is located on the Armenian Highlands, 11 km from it is Small Ararat (3927 m).

The eruptions of Greater Ararat have always been accompanied by destruction. The last tragedy broke out in 1840 and was accompanied by a strong earthquake. Then 10,000 people died.

Kazbek, Georgia

Kazbek is located in Georgia. The locals call it Mkinvartsveri, which translates as " ice mountain". The height of the giant is 5033.8 m.

Kazbek is not active today, but it is classified as potentially dangerous. It last erupted in 650 BC.

The mountain has very steep slopes, mudflow landslides are possible.

Conclusion

Volcanoes are among the most attractive tourist sites. Today, they are no longer so dangerous, since volcanologists can predict their activity. Research is being conducted on the use of the energy of geological formations for the benefit of mankind.

In an effort to go to the top of a volcano, especially an active one, it is necessary to collect information about its condition, listen to the forecasts of seismologists, since tragic incidents among tourists often occur.

We bring to your attention interesting video about the active volcanoes of the world:

Ojos del Salado is the highest volcano on the planet. It is located in the Chilean Andes in South America, on the border of Argentina and Chile, but it belongs to Argentine territory. Its height reaches 6893 meters. This is the second highest peak of the South American continent. Not far from the volcano lies the Atacama Desert. The volcano has not erupted during the entire period of observation of it and is considered extinct.

In the Western Cordillera of the Andes, the world's highest active volcano, Llullaillaco, is located. Altitude its equal to 6739 meters. The top of the volcano is covered with ice. snow line western slope Llullaillaco has highest position on the ground - more than 6.5 thousand meters. In 1877, the last volcanic eruption took place. It is currently in the solfataric stage.

In Chile, on the edge of the Atacama Desert, is the active volcano San Pedro. Its height is 6145 meters, its shape is a stratovolcano. It is located in the Antofagasta region of the province of El Loa and is adjacent to the Sero Parini volcano. From mountain ranges Central Andes San Pedro is separated by a huge saddle. The last volcanic eruption was recorded on December 2, 1960.

Cotopaxi is the highest active volcano in Ecuador (5911 meters) and the second highest peak in the country. It is located in the Cordillera Oriental in South America. The volcano is included in the list of the highest active volcanoes in the world. It has a huge crater measuring 550x800 meters and a depth of 450 meters. Cotopaxi has erupted about 50 times since 1738. The last eruption dates back to 1940.

In the northeast of Tanzania, rising above the Masai plateau, is the active volcano Kilimanjaro. It reaches 5895 meters and is considered the highest point in Africa. Exploring Kilimanjaro, in 2003, scientists found that only 400 meters away from the rim of the molten lava crater Kibo - main summit volcano. There are fears that a major eruption is approaching.

The El Misti stratovolcano is located in Peru in South America. Its height is 5822 meters. IN winter time the top of the volcano is covered with snow. 17 kilometers west of El Misti is the city of Arequipa with a million inhabitants. Most of the buildings in it are built from deposits of pyroclastic flows of the volcano, thanks to which Arequipa is also called the "white city".

The highest peak in Mexico is Orizaba. Her middle name is Sitlaltepetl, which translates as "star mountain". It is the third highest point on the list. North America. Its peak is located at an altitude of 5636 meters, and its excess is 4922 meters. Orizaba erupted 7 times between 1537 and 1687, but the volcano is now considered dormant.

Elbrus is located in the north of the Caucasus Mountains and is the highest point in Russia. The stratovolcano is a saddle-shaped cone with two peaks located at a distance of 3000 meters from each other. The heights of the western and eastern peaks are 5642 and 5621 meters, respectively. The saddle separating the peaks is 5300 meters high. The date of the last eruption is approximately 50 AD.

The active volcano Popocatepetl rises above the Mexican Highlands. Its name in Nahuatl means "smoking hill". This is the second highest stratovolcano in Mexico, its peak reaches 5455 meters. Not far from it is the extinct volcano Istaxihuatl. Popocatepetl last erupted in 2011. Northwest of the volcano is the city of Mexico City with a population of 20 million.

Closes the list of the most high volcanoes"Sangai". The active volcano Sangay is located in Ecuador, on the eastern side of the equatorial Andes. Its height is 5230 meters. This stratovolcano has three craters. According to scientists, Sangai was formed approximately 14,000 years ago. In 1628, an eruption was first recorded. Since 1934, the volcano has been actively erupting, the last time - in 2007.

They destroyed cities and even entire states. Today, Earth's volcanoes have not become calmer. Nevertheless, both in the distant past and today, they attract thousands of researchers and scientists from all over the world. The desire to know and understand what happens to a fire-breathing mountain during an eruption, how this process occurs, what precedes it, makes scientists climb dangerous slopes, approaching craters where the elements are raging.

Today, volcanologists have united in international organization(IAVCEI). She carefully monitors likely eruptions that could pose a threat to human life. To date, there is a list where there is the name of volcanoes, their location and the likelihood of the next eruption. This helps to prevent loss of life, evacuate people from the danger zone if necessary, and take emergency measures.

Etna (Italy)

We decided to start our review with this mountain not by chance. Mount Etna, the photo of which you see below in the article, is active, active, one of the largest and most dangerous on Earth. It is located in the east of Sicily, not far from Catania and Messina.

Its activity is explained by its location at the junction of the Eurasian and African. Other active mountains of the country are located at this break - Vesuvius, Stromboli, Vulcano. Scientists say that in ancient times (15-35 thousand years ago), Mount Etna, whose photos are often printed in special publications, was distinguished by explosive eruptions that left vast layers of lava. In the 21st century, Etna erupted more than 10 times, fortunately, without human casualties.

It is difficult to determine the exact height of this mountain, since its upper point changes due to frequent eruptions. They usually happen after a few months. Etna occupies huge area(1250 sq. km). After lateral eruptions, Etna had 400 craters. On average, every three to four months, the volcano ejects lava. It is potentially dangerous in the event of a powerful eruption. Thanks to the latest scientific developments, scientists hope to determine the increased activity of the mountain in time.

Sakurajima (Japan)

Experts consider Earth's volcanoes active if they have been active in the last 3000 years. This japanese volcano active continuously since 1955. It belongs to the first category. In other words, an eruption can start at any time. A not very strong lava ejection was noted in February 2009. Anxiety accompanies the inhabitants of Kagoshima City almost constantly. Teachings, equipped shelters have firmly entered their everyday life.

Researchers have installed webcams over the crater, so Sakurajima is under constant surveillance. I must say that volcanoes on the islands can change the terrain. This happened in Japan, when in 1924 there was a strong eruption of Sakurajima. Powerful tremors warned the city of danger, most of the residents managed to leave their homes and evacuate.

After that, the volcano, bearing the name Sakurajima (which means "sakura island"), can no longer be called an island. A huge amount of lava formed an isthmus that connected the mountain with the island of Kyushu. And a year after the eruption, lava slowly flowed out of the crater. The bottom of the bay has risen in the center of the Aira caldera, located eight kilometers from Sakurajima.

Aso (Japan)

This popular tourist facility for extreme people - actually dangerous volcano, which in 2011 threw out a large amount of lava and ash, covering an area of ​​​​100 kilometers. Since that moment, more than 2,500 powerful tremors have been registered. This suggests that at any moment he can destroy the nearby village.

Vesuvius (Italy)

Wherever there are volcanoes - on the continents or on the islands, they are equally dangerous. Vesuvius is very powerful, and therefore very dangerous. It is one of the three active scientists have information about 80 major eruptions of this mountain. The worst thing happened in 1979. Then the cities of Pompeii, Stabia, Herculaneum were completely destroyed.

One of the last powerful eruptions noted in 1944. The height of this mountain is 1281 m, the diameter of the crater is 750 m.

Colima (Mexico)

Many of us still remember the name of volcanoes (at least some of them) from the school curriculum, we learn about others from newspapers, and only specialists are aware of others. Colima is perhaps the most dangerous and powerful in the world. It last erupted in June 2005. Then a column of ash thrown out of the crater rose to a great height (more than 5 km). To local authorities had to evacuate the inhabitants of nearby villages.

This fire-breathing mountain consists of 2 conical peaks. Nevado de Colima is the highest of them. Its height is 4,625 m. It is considered extinct, and the other peak is an active volcano. It is called Volcán de Fuego de Colima - "Fire Volcano". Its height is 3,846 m. ​​The locals called it the Mexican Vesuvius.

It has erupted more than 40 times since 1576. And today it is extremely dangerous not only for residents of nearby cities, but for the whole of Mexico.

Galeras (Colombia)

Often the name of volcanoes is directly related to the area on which the mountain is located. But the name Galeras has nothing to do with the nearby town of Pasto.

It's huge and powerful volcano. Its height reaches 4276 meters. The diameter of the base is more than 20 kilometers, and the crater is 320 meters. It is located in Colombia (South America).

At the foot of this giant mountain is small town Pasto. In August 2010, its inhabitants had to be urgently evacuated due to the strongest eruption. The region has declared a state of emergency of the highest degree. More than 400 police officers were sent to the district to provide assistance to the townspeople.

Scientists say that over the past 7 thousand years, the volcano has woken up at least 6 times. And all the eruptions were very powerful. When conducting research work in 1993, six geologists died in the crater. At this time, another eruption began. In 2006, residents of the surrounding villages were evacuated due to the threat of a strong lava ejection.

Volcano Elbrus

On the border of Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria is highest point Europe and, of course, Russia - Elbrus. WITH northern part Greater Caucasus it is connected by the Lateral Range. The Elbrus Volcano consists of two peaks that are approximately the same height. Its eastern part reaches 5621 m, and the western part - 5642 m.

It is a cone-shaped stratovolcano. Its layers are formed by flows of tufa, lava, and ash. Recent eruptions Elbrus recorded 2500 years ago. Over time, it took on its current form. Few volcanoes on Earth can boast such a beautiful, "classic" cone shape. As a rule, craters quickly collapse under the influence of erosion. The beauty of Elbrus is protected by its mantle of ice and snow. It does not descend even in summer, for which the volcano was nicknamed Little Antarctica.

Despite the fact that he reminded of himself for a long time, experts who observe his current state and degree of activity do not consider him extinct. They call the mountain "sleeping". The volcano is behaving actively (fortunately, not yet destructively). Hot masses are still stored in its depths. They "warm up" known sources. Their temperature reaches +52 °С and +60 ºС. Seep through the cracks to the surface

Today Elbrus is a unique natural area, a valuable scientific base. In Soviet times, scientific research was carried out here, and now there is a geophysical laboratory, the highest in Europe.

Popocatepetl (Mexico)

This is the country's most located 50 kilometers from the capital - Mexico City. A city of twenty million is always prepared for an emergency evacuation. In addition, there are also two major cities- Tlaxcala de Jicotencatl and Puebla. This restless volcano also makes their inhabitants nervous. Emissions of sulfur, gas, stones and dust occur almost every month. In the last decade alone, the volcano has erupted three times.

Mauna Loa Volcano (USA, Hawaii)

It is the largest in terms of fiery mountain» Earth. Together with the underwater part, it is 80,000 cubic meters. km! The southeastern slope and summit are part of the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park.

There is a volcanological station on Mauna Loa. Research and ongoing observations have been carried out since 1912. There are also solar and atmospheric observatories.

The last eruption was noted in 1984. The height of the mountain above sea level is 4,169 meters.

Nyiragongo (Congo)

As already noted, the name of volcanoes may not always be known to ordinary citizens living on another continent. That doesn't make the mountain any less dangerous. Its activities are monitored by experts and promptly report an increase in activity.

Next on our list is the active volcano Nyiragongo, which is 3,469 meters high. It is located in the central part of the African continent, in the Virunga mountains. The volcano is considered the most dangerous in Africa. Partially, it connects with the more ancient mountains of Shaheru and Baratu. It is surrounded by hundreds of smoldering small volcanic cones. 40% of all observed eruptions on the continent occur here.

Mount Rainier (USA)

Our overview list is completed by a stratovolcano located in Pierce County (Washington), 87 km south of Seattle.

Rainier is part of the Volcanic Arc. Its height is 4392 meters. Its summit is made up of two volcanic craters.

We have presented you the most famous volcanoes. Their list, of course, is incomplete, because, according to scientists, only active mountains there are more than 600. In addition, 1-2 new volcanoes appear on Earth every year.