Methana volcano study reveals hidden magma during long dormancy
Updated
Updated · Smithsonian Magazine · May 1
Methana volcano study reveals hidden magma during long dormancy
4 articles · Updated · Smithsonian Magazine · May 1
Published in Science Advances on 22 April, the study traced 700,000 years and 31 eruptions at the Greek volcano near Athens.
Researchers found Methana stayed eruption-free for about 100,000 years between 280,000 and 168,000 years ago while magma still accumulated underground.
The findings suggest some volcanoes labelled extinct, especially at subduction zones in the Mediterranean, Pacific and Caribbean, may still pose hazards after very long quiet periods.
How many 'extinct' volcanoes worldwide are now considered hidden threats?
If a 100,000-year silence can be broken, which 'safe' volcano is next?
What new tech can find magma building deep beneath dormant volcanoes?
Hidden Water-Rich Magma Chambers Beneath Dormant Volcanoes: The Methana 2026 Discovery
Overview
In April 2026, a study revealed that Methana volcano's magma chamber has been silently accumulating water-rich magma for over 700,000 years, despite 100,000 years of surface dormancy. This challenges the old belief that volcanoes become extinct after 10,000 years of inactivity. The high water content increases magma viscosity, slowing its ascent and causing long periods of quiet while building explosive potential. This hidden magma growth means Methana and many other seemingly inactive volcanoes worldwide may still pose significant eruption risks. As a result, global volcanic hazard assessments and monitoring strategies must be updated to detect these silent threats and improve preparedness.