Sangeang Api is a complex volcano located in Indonesia at coordinates -8.2, 119.07, rising to an elevation of 1,912 meters within a subduction zone and continental crust tectonic setting. According to the Smithsonian Global Volcanism Program, the volcano has a confirmed record of 20 eruptions spanning over three centuries, with activity documented from 1715 through 2022.
Geographic and Setting Overview
Positioned in Indonesia, Sangeang Api operates in a subduction zone and continental crust tectonic setting where crustal thickness exceeds 25 kilometers. The volcanic edifice is classified as a complex volcano, reaching a summit elevation of 1,912 meters above sea level.
Historical Eruption Record and Chronology
The historical record for Sangeang Api encompasses 20 confirmed eruptions characterized by reported observations. The earliest recorded eruption in the official dataset began in 1715 with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2.0. Historical activity has been documented across four centuries, with varying frequencies and magnitudes.
Distribution of confirmed eruptions across centuries:
- 18th century CE: 1 recorded eruption
- 19th century CE: 2 recorded eruptions
- 20th century CE: 14 recorded eruptions
- 21st century CE: 3 recorded eruptions
The largest recorded Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) for Sangeang Api is 3.0. For example, an eruption starting on May 30, 2014, and ending on November 5, 2015, affected the summit crater and east flank with a VEI of 3.0. Other documented events include smaller-scale or moderately explosive activity, such as a VEI 2.0 eruption on July 2, 1927, a VEI 1.0 eruption on December 16, 1956, and a VEI 2.0 eruption recorded on February 17, 2022.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Sangeang Api located?
Sangeang Api is located in Indonesia at coordinates -8.2, 119.07, with a summit elevation of 1,912 meters.
How many eruptions have been recorded at Sangeang Api?
The Smithsonian Global Volcanism Program records 20 confirmed eruptions for Sangeang Api.
When did Sangeang Api erupt?
The recorded eruptions span from the earliest recorded year of 1715 to the latest recorded activity in 2022.
What is the largest recorded VEI for Sangeang Api?
The largest recorded Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) for Sangeang Api is 3.0.
Image credits
- Felix Dance — Wikimedia Commons source — CC BY 2.0
Sources and further context
Official datasets support the event-specific facts.