Cover Lake Pinatubo, the crater lake resulting from the 1991 eruption, pictured here in 2008 | Photo by Chris Tomnong, Wikimedia Commons
Lake Pinatubo, the crater lake resulting from the 1991 eruption, pictured here in 2008 | Photo by Chris Tomnong, Wikimedia Commons
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Mount Pinatubo was just raised to Alert Level 1. Find out about this active volcano's past, here:
1. Largest Eruption
The 15 June 1991 was world’s largest volcanic eruption to happen in the past 100 years. Some say its the second largest but due to the fact that it was the most destructive and in the most densely populated area, many experts have labelled it the largest in recent history.
2. Thousands Of Earthquakes
In March and April 1991 prior to the mega event in June, molten rock known as magma rose around 32 kilometres from below earth towards the volcano’s surface. This caused thousands of small earthquakes and wild steam explosions that broke through three craters on the north side of the volcano.
Above USGS volcano seismologist David Harlow conducts analysis of Mount Pinatubo seismicity.
USGS volcano seismologist David Harlow conducts analysis of Mount Pinatubo seismicity.
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3. Blast Zone
The monumental eruption in June 1991 had a blast radius of 5 cubic kilometres and rose up to 30km high.
4. 500 year silence
Prior to 15 June 1991, the volcano was dormant for around 500 years.
Above NASA's TOMS satellite image showing how Pinatubo's ash had circled the globe by June 30, 1991.
NASA's TOMS satellite image showing how Pinatubo's ash had circled the globe by June 30, 1991.
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5. Changing World Temperatures
Nearly 20 million tons of sulfur dioxide were injected into the stratosphere in Pinatubo's 1991 eruptions. This amount of gas affected global temperatures, causing them to drop from 1991 to1993 by about 1°F or 0.5°C.
Above The June 12 eruption of Mount Pinatubo, three days before the much larger eruption on June 15, 1991.
The June 12 eruption of Mount Pinatubo, three days before the much larger eruption on June 15, 1991.
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6. 12 June 1991 Explosion
Prior of the massive eruption on the 15th, Mount Pinatubo had its first big pre-explosion on 12 June 1991. The ash column was about 19 km high!
7. Death Toll
Above The eruption of Mount Pinatubo sent lahars and pyroclastic flows down the mountain, wiping out bridges and other infrastructure downstream
The eruption of Mount Pinatubo sent lahars and pyroclastic flows down the mountain, wiping out bridges and other infrastructure downstream
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8. Volcano Height Pre Eruption
Prior to its eruption, the volcano was 4,800 feet or 1,460 metres tall.
9. Above Sea Level
Mount Pinatubo is currently 1,485 metres or 4,900 feet above sea level.
Above Damage from volcanic ash fall at Clark Air Force Base from the June 15, 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo.
Damage from volcanic ash fall at Clark Air Force Base from the June 15, 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo.
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10. Oldest Known Eruption
The oldest recorded eruption recorded was 6100 before present day.
11. Last Eruption
Mount Pinatubo erupted again some time in August 1992, killing around 72 people.
Credits
Photography: U.S. Geological Survey
About
Isabel loves to learn, and see things from different perspectives. Connecting with people and engaging in new experiences to broaden her horizons is what inspires this storyteller, keeping her constantly curious, and excited for what's to come. An absolute love for all things F&B ignited a hunger to devour content from this world and keeps her jumping into tasty adventures around the globe. From the beauty of simple bites, to nuanced fine dining tasting menus, street food, and the art of entertaining, the multi-faceted nature of the dining experience is something she can't get enough of. A good cup of coffee or a glass of wine paired with a dash of witty conversation is a quick way to win her over. This editor loves travelling, food, music, skincare, fitness, and is only friends with people who love dogs. Guilty pleasure?: Binge-watching TV shows and movies she has already seen.
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Concept creation is the name of the game and branding takes centre stage in Isabel's day-to-day schedule. From producing shoots, conceptualising bespoke projects for our partners, relationship management, to cooking up features and events for Tatler Dining, this editor is a tried and tested foodie at heart. She mainly writes content for Tatler Dining, engaging in captivating discussions with restaurateurs, chefs, producers, and food enthusiasts to tell must-know stories. Aside from that Isabel manages Tatler Dining's flagship events like Off Menu, or Cocktail Festival and puts together the Tatler Dining Guide, our annual listing of the best eats around town.
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