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Eruption of Novarupta

Ash drifts around Katmai village barabaras (sod houses) after the June 1912 eruption of Novarupta
Ash drifts around Katmai village barabaras (sod houses) after the June 1912 eruption of Novarupta

Historical Context

Novarupta's eruption was the largest of the 20th century and took place over 60 hours from the 6th June 1912. Located in southern Alaska within what is now the Katmai National Park Novarupta meaning "new break" in Latin sent 6.7 cubic miles (28 cubic km) of ash into the air. The ash fell to earth 30cm deep over a 3,000 square mile area (7,800 square km) forming the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.

Although there were no deaths from the actual eruption a huge dust plume travelled the globe causing a drought in China and decimating the local Alaskan wildlife.

Photo Info

Location taken: Katmai, Alaska, USA
Source: Alaska Public Media

Related Events

  • 1912-06-06 The eruption of Novarupta in Alaska begins, the largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century


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