Explosive eruptions of Kilauea
Sherzer WH. 1923. Explosive eruptions of Kilauea. Science. 57(1477):459-461
Sherzer recognizes five periods of explosive activity of Kilauea. The earliest explosive eruption formed a bed exposed at the base of the northwest wall of the caldera [Uwekahuna ash]; the eruption began with ejection of dust and sand, followed by lapilli, some bombs, and blocks. The second one started with a little fine ash, then quantities of pumice, and closed with ejection of many blocks. The third eruption began with ejection of black sand followed by fine dust. The fourth was the eruption of 1789-90. The last occurred during Lord Byron's visit (1825), when 'red hot stones, cinders, and ash were also propelled to a great height.' The second and third eruptions formed deposits which unconformably underlie the 1790 ash. The explosions of 1790 appear to have come not from Halemaumau, but from nearer the center of the caldera. [Later study has shown that all of the young deposits (periods 2-4) are parts of the 1790 eruption.]
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Sherzer, W
- Units
- HAVO
- Keywords
- 1790, Hawaii (Big Island), Keanakakoi Ash Member, Kilauea Volcano, Puna Basalt, Summit Caldera, Uwekahuna ash