About Fourpeaked
Fourpeaked is a stratovolcano rising to 2,105 meters (6,907 feet) in United States's North America Volcanic Regions. It has been active in recent decades, with its last eruption in 2006 CE. The volcano has produced 1 recorded eruption, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2.
Geography & Climate
Fourpeaked is located in United States, within the Alaska Peninsula Volcanic Arc of the broader North America Volcanic Regions. Situated at 58.77° N, 153.67° W in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a subarctic climate zone. At 2,105 meters above sea level, Fourpeaked rises above the surrounding terrain into montane or subalpine conditions. The elevation creates distinct ecological zones along its flanks, from forested lower slopes to exposed rocky terrain near the summit. 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
Fourpeaked 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 Fourpeaked, 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
Fourpeaked has 1 recorded eruption in the geological database, spanning from 2006 CE to 2006 CE. The most powerful recorded event was an explosive event producing ash plumes up to several kilometers in 2006 CE, reaching VEI 2 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. With eruptive activity as recently as 2006 CE, Fourpeaked remains an actively monitored volcano.
GVP Reference Summary
Poorly known Fourpeaked volcano in NE Katmai National Park consists of isolated outcrops surrounded by the Fourpeaked Glacier, which descends eastward almost to the Shelikof Strait. The orientation of andesitic lava flows and extensive hydrothermal alteration of rocks near the present summit suggest that it probably marks the vent area. Eruptive activity during the Holocene had not been confirmed prior to the first historical eruption in September 2006. A N-trending fissure extending 1 km from the summit produced minor ashfall.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
1 Recorded Eruption
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | Fissure trending N from summit |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Fourpeaked
Is Fourpeaked an active volcano?+
Yes, Fourpeaked is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 2006 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did Fourpeaked last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Fourpeaked occurred in 2006 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Fourpeaked has 1 recorded eruption in total.
How high is Fourpeaked?+
Fourpeaked has a summit elevation of 2,105 meters (6,907 feet) above sea level. At 2,105 meters, it is comparable in height to many significant mountain peaks and stands well above the tree line.
What type of volcano is Fourpeaked?+
Fourpeaked 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 Fourpeaked located?+
Fourpeaked is located in United States, in the North America Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Alaska Peninsula Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 58.770° latitude, -153.672° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Fourpeaked?+
Visiting Fourpeaked requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 2006 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.
