Towering Giants of the Sea: Twin Volcanoes Surpass Everest’s Height, 4.2km of Which Lie Beneath the Waves
Deep in the Pacific Ocean, there exists a natural wonder that will leave you awestruck. Meet the Surtsey and Vestmannaeyjar, two towering volcanoes that rise above the waves, their peaks piercing the sky like giants. But here’s the astonishing part: a staggering 4.2 kilometers of these underwater volcanoes lie hidden beneath the surface, dwarfing the height of Mount Everest.
Located off the southern coast of Iceland, the Surtsey and Vestmannaeyjar volcanoes are part of a volcanic island chain known as the Westman Islands. Geologically speaking, these islands are a hotspot, where magma from the Earth’s mantle rises to the surface, forming new land. Over the centuries, the islands have been shaped by the relentless forces of erosion and sedimentation, creating a unique landscape of black sand beaches, towering cliffs, and an incredible array of marine life.
The Surtsey volcano, named after the mythical fire giant Surtur, stands at an impressive 174 meters (571 feet) above the surface. However, its true height is revealed when you consider the 1.7 kilometers (1.06 miles) that extend beneath the waves. That’s taller than Mount Everest, the highest peak on land, which stands at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet).
Vestmannaeyjar, meaning "Westman Islands," is a smaller but no less remarkable volcano. Its peak reaches 120 meters (394 feet) above the surface, but a further 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) of its structure lies beneath the ocean’s surface.
The fascinating thing about these underwater volcanoes is their potential to create new land. Surtsey, for example, is a relatively young volcano, born from a volcanic eruption in 1963. Since then, it has been slowly growing, with new land rising from the sea at a rate of about 0.5 meters (1.64 feet) per year.
Why should we care about these towering giants of the sea?
- Ecological significance: The Westman Islands are a vital habitat for marine life, with an incredible array of species, including puffins, gannets, and seals.
- Scientific curiosity: Studying these underwater volcanoes can provide valuable insights into geological processes, ocean currents, and climate change.
- Tourism potential: The Westman Islands are already a popular tourist destination, with Surtsey and Vestmannaeyjar offering breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife watching.
Image:
Here’s an illustration of the Surtsey and Vestmannaeyjar volcanoes, showing their true heights above and below the waves:
[Image: A 3D illustration of the Surtsey and Vestmannaeyjar volcanoes, with the surface peak (blue) and the underwater extension (gray) labeled. The ocean’s surface is depicted as a wavy blue line.]
FAQs:
- How do these volcanoes form? The Surtsey and Vestmannaeyjar volcanoes are part of a hotspot, where magma from the Earth’s mantle rises to the surface, forming new land.
- What’s the fastest way to get to the Westman Islands? The nearest airport is located in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. From there, take a ferry or a small plane to the Westman Islands.
- Can I visit the underwater volcanoes? No, the underwater extensions of the Surtsey and Vestmannaeyjar volcanoes are not accessible for humans. However, you can explore the surface areas, including the beaches, cliffs, and surrounding waters.
- How can I learn more about these incredible volcanoes? Visit the Westman Islands’ official website or consult with local tour operators, geologists, and marine biologists for more information and guided tours.
The Surtsey and Vestmannaeyjar volcanoes are a testament to the awe-inspiring power of geological forces, reminding us of the importance of protecting and preserving our planet’s natural wonders.
