A Cellular Automata model for simulating pyroclastic flows and first application to 1991 Pinatubo eruption

Abstract

PYR, a first Cellular Automata model for pyroclastic flows, generated by collapsing volcanic columns, is reported in this paper. It was applied to the 1991 Pinatubo eruption (Philippines islands). The model is very simple, but it is able to capture the three-dimensional evolution of the phenomenon in so far as it spreads. Results of the simulations are enough satisfying, if the comparison between real and simulated event is performed, considering the area involved by the event and the thickness of the deposit. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2003.