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Masaya Volcano - John Seach
Nicaragua
11.98 N, 86.16 W
summit elevation 635 m
caldera
Masaya is a basaltic volcano located 25 km southeast of Managua, Nicaragua. It consists of a 6×11.5 km diameter caldera, which formed by a series of Plinian eruptions in the past 6000 years. A lava lake has formed in the crater on numerous occasions.
2008 Eruptions
An eruption of ash from Masaya volcano occurred on 29th April 2008, rising to a height of 2.1 km. Ash emissions occurred in September, November and December 2008.
2006 Eruptions
Two small phreatomagmatic eruptions occurred at Masaya volcano on 4th August 2006. Incandescence was visible at the bottom of the crater, and sounds similar to a jet engine were heard. In October 2006 a new vent opened on the floor of Santiago crater with a small lava lake which displayed intense degassing. Following heavy rains, landslides occurred from the crater walls.
2001 Eruptions
On 23rd April 2001 tourists were caught in one of the most powerful eruptions at the volcano in 30 years. Two people were injured and 200 people were caught in the danger zone.
Volcanic bombs landed in the parking area, damaged cars and set fire to vegetation and shelters. Scientists had left the crater only one hour before Masaya erupted.
2000 Eruptions
On 6th January 2000 a small explosion occurred at Santiago crater.
1996 Eruption
A strombolian eruption occurred at Masaya volcano on 5th December 1996 which ejected blocks up to 10 cm in diameter.
1993 Lava Lake
A lava lake formed in the bottom of Santiago crater in late June 1993 after an absence of 3 years.
Masaya Volcano Eruptions
2008, 2006, 2005, 2003, 2001, 1999-2000, 1996, 1993-94, 1989, 1987, 1965-85, 1946-47?, 1919-24, 1913, 1906, 1904, 1902-03, 1858-59, 1858?, 1856-57, 1853, 1852, 1772, 1670, 1613?, 1586?, 1570, 1551, 1524-44?