Caldera Collapse Geometry Revealed by Near-field GPS Displacements at
Kilauea Volcano in 2018
Abstract
We employ near-field GPS data to determine the subsurface geometry of a
collapsing caldera during the 2018 Kilauea eruption. Collapse occurred
in 62 discrete events with “inflationary’ deformation external to the
collapse similar to previous basaltic collapses. We employ GPS data from
the collapsing block, and constraints on the magma chamber geometry from
inversion of deflation prior to collapse. This provides an unparalleled
opportunity to constrain the collapse geometry. Employing an
axisymmetric finite element model, the co-collapse displacements are
best explained by piston-like subsidence along a steep
(~85 degree) normal ring-fault that may steepen with
depth. Magma compressibility is 2-15 x 10 Pa, indicating bubble volume
fractions from 1 to 7 % (lower if fault steepens with depth). Magma
pressure increases during collapses are 1-3 MPa, depending on
compressibility. A point source in a half-space fits the data well, but
provides a biased representation of the source depth and process.