Understanding Mauna Loa's Volcanic Activity and Deformation Cycles

Mauna Loa, the giant volcano on the Island of Hawai'i, has a rich history of eruptions that have shaped the island's geography. It remains at a normal level of volcanic activity, with scientists closely monitoring its deformation and seismicity. Recent data suggests ongoing slow inflation as magma replenishes the reservoir system following the 2022 eruption. The Global Positioning System (GPS), borehole tiltmeters, Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), and seismometers are now used to measure changes and unrest at Mauna Loa, providing valuable insights into the volcano's patterns and cycles. By comparing data from past eruptions, scientists can better predict future volcanic behavior and communicate potential hazards to nearby communities.In recent history, Mauna Loa has displayed a variety of eruptive behaviors. The 1975 eruption was brief but left a lasting impact on the landscape, while the 1984 eruption lasted longer and resulted in lava flowing down the northeast flank of the volcano. The most recent eruption in 2022 was well anticipated, with increased seismic activity and surface deformation signaling the volcano's awakening. Despite the differences in behavior before each eruption, all three events were followed by rapid reinflation that gradually waned over the years. Understanding these cycles of volcanic activity is crucial for the ongoing monitoring and mitigation of potential hazards posed by Mauna Loa.