NASA scientist Richard B. Stothers, who studied the dates of strong eruptions between 1500 and 1980, has disproven the theory that volcanoes are more likely to erupt at certain times of the year. For example, nearly all eruptions south of 50 degrees south latitude occurred between November and April. Nearly all recorded eruptions south of 50 degrees south latitude occurred between November and April because outsiders who could record eruptions only visit that uninhabited region during its summer. The new study is based on a computer model developed by Dr. Stothers in collaboration with colleagues from Columbia University and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The peak monthly total of eruptions was 52 for February and 36 for both April and December, a statistical variation expected to occur randomly.
NASA scientist Richard B. Stothers, who studied the dates of strong eruptions between 1500 and 1980, has disproven the theory that volcanoes are more likely to erupt at certain times of the year. Nearly all recorded eruptions south of 50 degrees south latitude occurred between November and April because outsiders who could record eruptions only visit that uninhabited region during its summer. The new study is based on a computer model developed by Dr. Stothers in collaboration with colleagues from Columbia University and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The peak monthly total of eruptions was 52 for February and 36 for both April and December, a statistical variation expected to occur randomly.