About Asuncion
Asuncion is a stratovolcano rising to 857 meters (2,812 feet) in United States's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. It last erupted in 1906 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
Asuncion is located in United States, within the Mariana Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 19.67° N, 145.41° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a tropical climate zone. With a summit elevation of 857 meters above sea level, Asuncion 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
Asuncion 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 Asuncion, 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
Asuncion has 4 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 1690 CE to 1924 CE. The most powerful recorded event was an explosive event producing ash plumes up to several kilometers in 1924 CE, reaching VEI 2 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. These eruptions span roughly 234 years of volcanic history. The most recent eruption in 1924 CE places this volcano within the modern era of volcanological observation.
GVP Reference Summary
A single large asymmetrical stratovolcano forms 3-km-wide Asuncion Island. The steeper NE flank terminates in high sea cliffs, while the gentler SW flanks have low-angle slopes bounded by sea cliffs only a few meters high. The southern flank is cut by a large landslide scar. The S and W flanks are covered by ash deposits. An explosive eruption in 1906 produced lava flows that descended about halfway down the W and SE flanks, but several other eruption reports are of uncertain validity.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
4 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1924 | 2 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1906 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | Upper SE and W flanks |
| 1775 | 2 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1690 | — | Uncertain Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Asuncion
Is Asuncion an active volcano?+
Yes, Asuncion is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 1906 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did Asuncion last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Asuncion occurred in 1924 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2. The eruption was classified as a "Uncertain Eruption." Asuncion has 4 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Asuncion?+
Asuncion has a summit elevation of 857 meters (2,812 feet) above sea level. At 857 meters, it is a relatively low-elevation volcano.
What type of volcano is Asuncion?+
Asuncion 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 Asuncion located?+
Asuncion is located in United States, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Mariana Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 19.671° latitude, 145.406° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Asuncion?+
Visiting Asuncion requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 1906 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.
