About South Sarigan Seamount
South Sarigan Seamount is a stratovolcano rising to -184 meters (-604 feet) in United States's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. It has been active in recent decades, with its last eruption in 2010 CE. The volcano has produced 1 recorded eruption, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 3.
Geography & Climate
South Sarigan Seamount is located in United States, within the Mariana Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 16.58° N, 145.78° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a tropical climate zone. With an elevation of -184 meters — below sea level — South Sarigan Seamount is a submarine or submerged volcanic feature. Submarine volcanoes make up the majority of Earth's volcanic activity, though most eruptions go unobserved beneath the ocean surface. 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
South Sarigan Seamount 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 United States near South Sarigan Seamount, 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 no data (checked), which influences the viscosity of the magma and, consequently, the style of eruptions this volcano produces. Rock chemistry is one of the most important factors in determining whether a volcano erupts explosively or effusively.
Eruption History Summary
South Sarigan Seamount has 1 recorded eruption in the geological database, spanning from 2010 CE to 2010 CE. The most powerful recorded event was a severe eruption capable of regional ash fall and pyroclastic flows in 2010 CE, reaching VEI 3 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. With eruptive activity as recently as 2010 CE, South Sarigan Seamount remains an actively monitored volcano.
Significance
With a maximum recorded VEI of 3, South Sarigan Seamount has produced eruptions capable of generating pyroclastic flows and significant ash fall in the surrounding area. While not among the largest eruptions globally, VEI 3 events pose serious hazards to local populations and can disrupt regional air travel. Given its recent activity, South Sarigan Seamount is closely monitored by geological survey organizations to provide early warning of future unrest.
GVP Reference Summary
South Sarigan seamount, rising to within about 184 m of the ocean surface 12 km S of Sarigan Island, was the site of a short explosive submarine eruption in May 2010 that produced a plume of ash and steam to 12 km altitude. Sidescan sonar imagery taken in 2003 shows an irregular summit with multiple peaks, including a possibly young cone at about 350 m depth, and flank morphology suggests it is a frequently active volcano.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
1 Recorded Eruption
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 3 | Confirmed Eruption | Northern summit cone, 184 m below sea level |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About South Sarigan Seamount
Is South Sarigan Seamount an active volcano?+
Yes, South Sarigan Seamount is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 2010 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did South Sarigan Seamount last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of South Sarigan Seamount occurred in 2010 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 3. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." South Sarigan Seamount has 1 recorded eruption in total.
How high is South Sarigan Seamount?+
South Sarigan Seamount has a summit elevation of -184 meters (-604 feet) above sea level. With an elevation of -184 meters (below sea level), this is a submarine or submerged volcanic feature.
What type of volcano is South Sarigan Seamount?+
South Sarigan Seamount is classified as a Stratovolcano. Stratovolcanoes (also called composite volcanoes) are steep, conical volcanoes built up by many layers of hardened lava, tephra, and volcanic ash. They are among the most common and dangerous types, known for explosive eruptions.
Where is South Sarigan Seamount located?+
South Sarigan Seamount is located in United States, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Mariana Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 16.580° latitude, 145.780° longitude.
Is it safe to visit South Sarigan Seamount?+
Visiting South Sarigan Seamount requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 2010 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.
