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Application of near real-time radial semblance to locate the shallow magmatic conduit at Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii

January 1, 2004

Radial Semblance is applied to broadband seismic network data to provide source locations of Very-Long-Period (VLP) seismic energy in near real time. With an efficient algorithm and adequate network coverage, accurate source locations of VLP energy are derived to quickly locate the shallow magmatic conduit system at Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii. During a restart in magma flow following a brief pause in the current eruption, the shallow magmatic conduit is pressurized, resulting in elastic radiation from various parts of the conduit system. A steeply dipping distribution of VLP hypocenters outlines a region extending from sea level to about 550 m elevation below and just east of the Halemaumau Pit Crater. The distinct hypocenters suggest the shallow plumbing system beneath Halemaumau consists of a complex plexus of sills and dikes. An unconstrained location for a section of the conduit is also observed beneath the region between Kilauea Caldera and Kilauea Iki Crater.

Publication Year 2004
Title Application of near real-time radial semblance to locate the shallow magmatic conduit at Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii
DOI 10.1029/2004GL021163
Authors P. Dawson, D. Whilldin, B. Chouet
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Geophysical Research Letters
Index ID 70026436
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Volcano Hazards Program