UH Hilo Center for Maunakea Stewardship - Research Library

Mauna Loa lava accumulation rates at the Hilo drill site: formation of lava deltas during a period of declining overall volcanic growth

Author:
Lipman, Peter W., Moore, James G.
Title:
Mauna Loa lava accumulation rates at the Hilo drill site: formation of lava deltas during a period of declining overall volcanic growth
Periodical:
Journal of Geophysical Research
Year:
1996
Volume:
101
Pages:
11631-11641
Subject:
Hawaii Scientific Drilling Project Mauna Loa volcano Lava flows
Summary:
Thickness variations and accumulation rates for Mauna Loa lavas at the Hilo drill site have been strongly affected by local paleotopography. Prior to 10 ka, Mauna Loa lava accumulation rates at the drill site varied from 0.6 to 4.3 mm/yr for dateable intervals, with an overall rate of 1.8 mm/yr. Major eruptive pulses at about 1.3 and 10 ka have increased the overall accumulation rate to 2.4 mm/yr. Overall accumulation of 239 m of lava at the drill site since 100–120 ka closely balances submergence of the Hilo area, suggesting that coastal lava deposition have been modulated by rise in sea level. The Hilo accumulation rate is slightly higher than average rates of 1–2 mm/yr determined elsewhere along the Mauna Loa coast. Low rates of coastal lava accumulation since 100 ka indicate that Mauna Loa is no longer growing vigorously or even maintaining its size above sea level.
Label:
Geology
Date:
May 10, 1996
Collection:
Periodicals