Modeling of the source mechanism of the April 5, 2003 paroxysmal eruption at Stromboli volcano (Italy) by the inversion of broadband seismic data

Abstract

Abstract: On April 5, 2003, one of the largest eruptions in the last decades was observed at Stromboli volcano, Italy. The eruption occurred in a period of anomalous volcanic activity, after a previous explosion in December 2002 interrupted the typical moderate "Strombolian" behaviour. An exhaustive analysis of the available broadband seismic data is here presented and related to the observed eruption phases. Prominent features of the seismic signals include a very long period signal a few tens of seconds prior to the explosive eruption, as well as a strong energetic signal a few seconds after the onset of the eruption.