About Reclus
Reclus is a pyroclastic cone rising to 1,403 meters (4,603 feet) in Chile's South America Volcanic Regions. It last erupted in 1908 CE, and volcanologists consider it an active volcanic system. The volcano has produced 4 recorded eruptions, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2.
Geography & Climate
Reclus is located in Chile, within the Austral Andean Volcanic Arc of the broader South America Volcanic Regions. Situated at 50.94° S, 73.58° W in the Southern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a temperate climate zone. With a summit elevation of 1,403 meters above sea level, Reclus is a moderately sized peak that remains accessible to hikers and researchers for much of the year. The volcanic landform is characterized as a composite, which describes the physical shape and structure of the volcanic edifice as observed from the surface.
Geological Context
Reclus sits in a subduction zone, where one tectonic plate dives beneath another, creating intense heat and pressure that generates magma. Subduction zones are responsible for many of the world's most explosive volcanoes and deadliest eruptions. For communities in Chile near Reclus, this tectonic setting means the volcano is capable of producing powerful explosive eruptions, pyroclastic flows, and lahars that can threaten populated areas within tens of kilometers of the summit. The dominant rock type is dacite, an intermediate to silica-rich volcanic rock. This composition typically produces more viscous magma, leading to more explosive eruptions with ash columns and pyroclastic flows. Andesitic and dacitic magmas build pressure before erupting, which is why volcanoes with this rock chemistry are often associated with Plinian-style eruptions that can send ash tens of kilometers into the atmosphere and disrupt aviation across entire regions.
Eruption History Summary
Reclus has 4 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 1830 BCE to 1908 CE. The most powerful recorded event was an explosive event producing ash plumes up to several kilometers in 1879 CE, reaching VEI 2 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. These eruptions span roughly 3,738 years of volcanic history. The most recent eruption in 1908 CE places this volcano within the modern era of volcanological observation.
GVP Reference Summary
Reclus, the source of several Patagonian Holocene tephra layers, was recognized to be an independent volcanic edifice in 1987. The volcano consists of a large dacitic pyroclastic cone with a crater about 1 km in diameter. As many as six tephra layers overlie a peat layer dated at 3,780 years before present. Research has also revealed evidence for eruptions in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
4 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1908 | 1 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
| 1879 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
| 1869 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
| 1830 BCE | — | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Reclus
Is Reclus an active volcano?+
Yes, Reclus is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 1908 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did Reclus last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Reclus occurred in 1908 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 1. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Reclus has 4 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Reclus?+
Reclus has a summit elevation of 1,403 meters (4,603 feet) above sea level. At 1,403 meters, it is a moderately sized volcanic peak, roughly comparable to Mount Vesuvius (1,281m).
What type of volcano is Reclus?+
Reclus is classified as a Pyroclastic cone. Pyroclastic cone volcanoes have distinct geological characteristics that set them apart from other volcanic types.
Where is Reclus located?+
Reclus is located in Chile, in the South America Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Austral Andean Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are -50.940° latitude, -73.580° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Reclus?+
Visiting Reclus requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 1908 CE, conditions can change rapidly. Always consult local geological authorities and follow official warnings before visiting. Many active volcanoes have designated safe viewing areas and guided tour options.
