About Fukujin
Fukujin is a stratovolcano rising to -217 meters (-712 feet) in United States's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. It last erupted in 1974 CE, and volcanologists consider it an active volcanic system. The volcano has produced 13 recorded eruptions, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 1.
Geography & Climate
Fukujin is located in United States, within the Mariana Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 21.93° N, 143.47° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a tropical climate zone. With an elevation of -217 meters — below sea level — Fukujin 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
Fukujin 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 Fukujin, 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 andesite / basaltic andesite, a dark, fine-grained volcanic rock that forms from rapidly cooling, low-viscosity lava. Basaltic eruptions tend to be less explosive and produce fluid lava flows that can travel long distances. While less immediately dangerous than explosive eruptions, basaltic lava flows can destroy structures and infrastructure in their path, and volcanic gases released during these eruptions can affect air quality over a wide area.
Eruption History Summary
Fukujin has 13 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 1951 CE to 1982 CE. The most powerful recorded event was a gentle, effusive event in 1973 CE, reaching VEI 1 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. This level of eruptive frequency indicates a persistently active volcanic system that warrants ongoing monitoring. The most recent eruption in 1982 CE places this volcano within the modern era of volcanological observation.
Significance
With 13 recorded eruptions, Fukujin has a substantial eruptive history that provides valuable data for understanding volcanic behavior and assessing future hazards in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions region. Given its recent activity, Fukujin is closely monitored by geological survey organizations to provide early warning of future unrest.
GVP Reference Summary
Fukujin seamount in the Mariana Volcanic Arc has risen on occasion to just beneath the ocean surface. Intermittent periods of water discoloration have been observed since the mid-20th century, and eruptions producing floating pumice were noted on several occasions.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
13 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1982 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1982 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1981 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1979 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1978 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1977 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1976 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | 21.95 N 143.45 E |
| 1973 | 1 | Confirmed Eruption | 21.93 N 143.46 E |
| 1968 | 0 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
| 1959 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1958 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1952 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1951 | 0 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Fukujin
Is Fukujin an active volcano?+
Yes, Fukujin is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 1974 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did Fukujin last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Fukujin occurred in 1982 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 0. The eruption was classified as a "Uncertain Eruption." Fukujin has 13 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Fukujin?+
Fukujin has a summit elevation of -217 meters (-712 feet) above sea level. With an elevation of -217 meters (below sea level), this is a submarine or submerged volcanic feature.
What type of volcano is Fukujin?+
Fukujin 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 Fukujin located?+
Fukujin is located in United States, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Mariana Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 21.930° latitude, 143.470° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Fukujin?+
Visiting Fukujin requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 1974 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.
