B-Value Method Improves Volcanic Forecasting
B-value measures small-to-large earthquake ratios linked to magma movement.
Method predicts eruptions months ahead, unlike current short-term monitoring.
June 2025 eruption produced a 6.5 km ash column, stressing longer warnings.
Data spans 20 years (2005–2024) from deep (11 km) and intermediate (3–7 km) magma chambers.
Integrating b-value data with satellite and gas monitoring enhances eruption alerts.
Research aims to apply the method to other volcanic regions globally.
2 weeks ago