Towards the development of the first permanent volcano observatory in Argentina

Abstract

Argentina is a country that presents a complex situation regarding volcanic risk, where a total of 38 volcanoes are considered active. Although Argentina has no major cities close to these volcanoes, the continuous increase in economic activity and infrastructure near the Andean Codillera will increase exposure to volcano hazards in the future. Further, volcanic activity on the border between Argentina and Chile poses a unique challenge in relation to volcano monitoring and the management of volcanic emergencies. Additionally, due to atmospheric circulation patterns in the region (from West to East), Argentina is exposed to ashfall and ash dispersion from frequent explosive eruptions from Chilean volcanoes. Considering this, the Servicio Geológico Minero Argentino (SEGEMAR) decided to create and implement a Volcanic Threat Assessment Program, which includes the creation of the the first permanent volcano observatory for the country, the Observatorio Argentino de Vigilancia Volcánica (OAVV). Previously the Decepcion Island volcano observatory was created as a collaboration between the Instituto Antártico Argentino (IAA) and the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN) from the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC).