Clear Lake Volcanic Field Eruption at Mount Konocti Threat Potential is Listed as “HIGH”

Posted on February 2, 2018 Updated on February 3, 2018

View of Mount Konocti

Yes according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) website that the Clear Lake Volcanic Field at Mount Konocti in Lake County, California is listed at “HIGH” under Threat Potential. Even though it has not erupted for several millennia, sporadic volcanic-type earthquakes do occur, and the numerous hot springs and volcanic gases seeps in at the area of the Volcanic Field gives it potential to erupt again.

Mount Konocti is at an elevation of 4,721 feet and is 3,200 feet above the 43,000 acre fresh water lake, which is the biggest natural lake in California called Clear Lake. Mount Konocti is estimated to be about 300,000 years old. Nearby towns are Clearlake, Kelseyville, Lakeport and Lucerne. Even though the last eruption was about 10,000 -11,000 years ago, the Geysers Steam Field, which sits at the southwest margin of the volcanic region, is host to one of the world’s most productive geothermal power plants, producing enough electricity for 850,000 homes. The heat driving the geothermal system emanates from a zone of partially molten rock (magma) deep below the greater Clear Lake Volcanic System. Monitoring in the Clear Lake region by the USGS and a collaborative effort with Calpine Corporation in the Geysers Steam Field, provides real-time tracking of earthquake activity. In addition, the USGS periodically analyzes volcanic gases and hot springs in the region.

Story by Nelson Symes