Field Excursion

Geomorphology and volcanic hazards at Bandai-san, Azuma-yama, and Adatara-yama (Fukushima, Japan)

Leader: Kyoko KATAOKA
(Research Institute for Natural Hazards and Disaster Recovery, Niigata University)

This two-day field trip to Inawashiro Town, Kita-shiobara Village, and Fukushima City focusses on volcanic geomorphology and stratigraphy as well as volcanic hazards at active volcanoes such as Bandai-san (磐梯山), Azuma-yama (吾妻山), and Adatara-yama (安達太良山) in Fukushima Prefecture. These volcanoes are monitored 24/7 by the Japan Meteorological Agency and have a record of frequent eruptions, lahars, and volcanic collapses during prehistoric and historic time, responsible for many fatalities and substantial modification of the landscape. During the field trip we will observe many elements of these volcanic landscapes, including volcanic cones, collapsed edifices, hummocky terrains, volcanic dam lakes/pond as well as debris avalanche and lahar deposits. Since these volcanoes are very popular for tourism, we also will have an opportunity to discuss future volcanic hazards and risk mitigation at proximal volcanic centres (which attract tourists and hikers), at medial volcanic slopes with ski fields, and in the populated downstream areas.