Research Reveals Long Dormancy Period for Active Volcano Methana in Greece

New research indicates that Methana, an active volcano located near Athens, Greece, remained dormant for nearly 110,000 years before resuming activity. This period of inactivity exceeds previous expectations for dormant volcanoes and raises questions about how to classify volcanoes as dormant or extinct.

The research highlights that such extended dormancy periods can occur in volcanoes still capable of eruption, altering prior scientific models.

The findings suggest a need to revisit criteria used to determine if a volcano is extinct, as long dormancy does not necessarily indicate permanent inactivity. Scientists may adjust monitoring protocols for similar volcanoes worldwide based on this evidence. @ScienceMagazine reported these details from the study, noting the complication to classic understandings of volcanic behavior.