The Blue Lake was formed by powerful underground explosions that occurred when ground water came into contact with hot, possibly molten lava.
The Formation Process Explained
During periods when the volcano was dormant, a specific geological process led to the creation of large craters, including the one that holds the Blue Lake. This process involved the interaction between water and intense heat below the surface.
Here's a breakdown of the steps involved, based on available information:
- Ground Water Percolation: Ground water percolated into the underground channels. This means that water from the surface seeped down through the ground into the network of passages beneath.
- Mixing with Lava: This ground water then mixed with the hot and possibly molten lava at depth. Coming into contact with extremely hot or molten rock deep underground created a volatile situation.
- Resultant Explosions: The interaction between the water and the intense heat of the lava triggered resultant explosions. These were not typical surface eruptions but powerful blasts originating from below.
- Crater Formation: These significant explosions caused the large craters that are obvious today, containing Blue, Valley and Browne Lakes. The force of the blasts excavated the ground above, leaving behind deep depressions that subsequently filled with water to form the lakes.
This type of volcanic crater formed by explosive ejection of rock and ash, typically when ground or surface water comes into contact with hot lava or magma, is often referred to as a maar crater. The reference specifically highlights the role of ground water and lava mixing leading to explosions as the key mechanism for creating the large craters that now house the Blue, Valley, and Browne Lakes.
Here is a simplified view of the process:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Water Seepage | Ground water percolated underground |
| 2. Contact with Heat | Water mixed with hot... lava at depth |
| 3. Underground Blasts | Resultant explosions occurred |
| 4. Crater Creation | Explosions caused the large craters |
| 5. Lake Formation | Craters filled with water, forming lakes |
Understanding this process helps explain the unique geological features of the area. For more on how volcanic activity shapes landscapes, you can explore resources on Volcanic Landforms.
