Datun Mountain is active, can devastate Taipei: study

The recent report used volcanic ash and mudflow in the analysis and claimed that Datun Mountain was an active volcano. A previous study had showed that the last eruption occurred 200,000 years ago and classified it as a dormant volcano.

The scholars involved in this new study, Chen Jung-hua and two professors from Russia determined the latest eruption of Datun took place 5,000 years ago instead. According to the international volcano classification, an active volcano is one that has had an eruption within the past 10,000 years. An active volcano erupts on a regular basis and a dormant volcano is one that has had an eruption in historical times but now remains quiet.

In this ten-month study, the scholars analyzed the surface materials formed from the remaining volcanic ash and mudflow and determined the formation occurred 5,000 years ago. Although the magma chamber brings frequent tremors, scholars said these are within safety measures. The final study is expected to be presented at the end of this year.

According to media reports, an officer for Yangminshan National Park, stated that if Datun proves to be an active volcano, its eruption magnitude might bring devastation as significant as the 921 Earthquake.

He made a striking comparison between the severity of Datun Mountain as an active volcano to Pompeii, which was burnt and destroyed by a volcano eruption in AD 79. Other scholars warned the government to have an immediate plan for making preparations for any future volcano eruption.

In response, the Central Weather Bureau stated the recorded tremors are not related to volcano activity and are possibly caused by magma contraction. Taipei City Mayor, Hau Lung-bin, stated he will take the new findings into consideration and set up plans for volcano preparations.

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