Vulcão da Serreta, Submarine volcano near Terceira Island, Azores, Portugal
Vulcao da Serreta is a submarine volcano along an underwater fissural zone positioned west of Terceira Island in the Atlantic. The eruption vents lie at depths of 9 to 14 kilometers below the sea surface and are regularly monitored through a network of sensors deployed around the island.
The volcano first erupted in May 1867 following intense seismic activity that began in December 1866 in the region. Another major eruption sequence occurred between 1998 and 2000, producing noticeable surface-level phenomena that drew scientific attention.
The local fishing community has integrated observations of volcanic activity into their daily maritime practices and safety routines. Water temperature shifts and occasional gas releases from the seafloor are recognized as natural phenomena that shape the region's ocean behavior.
The volcano is best observed from viewing points on Terceira Island or from boats that venture into the surrounding waters for marine activities. Access to the volcanic site itself is restricted as this area remains primarily dedicated to scientific research and monitoring.
During the 1998 to 2000 eruption, the volcano produced large lava balloons that rose to the surface, where they either burst or sank after cooling. This rare phenomenon made the eruption a notable event in volcanic science.
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