Australia is a vast continent with a diverse range of landscapes, including active volcanoes. The country has a long history of volcanic activity, with evidence of eruptions dating back millions of years. In this article, we'll explore how many active volcanoes are in Australia and where they are located.
What is an Active Volcano?
An active volcano is a volcano that has erupted within the last 10,000 years and has the potential to erupt again in the future. There are around 500 active volcanoes in the world, and Australia is home to a few of them.
Where are the Active Volcanoes in Australia?
The active volcanoes in Australia are located in two main areas: the east coast and the Bass Strait. The east coast is home to a cluster of volcanoes that run from northern Queensland down to Victoria. The Bass Strait is located between Tasmania and mainland Australia and is home to a few volcanic islands.
Active Volcanoes on the East Coast
The active volcanoes on the east coast of Australia are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region that is prone to volcanic and seismic activity. The most well-known volcano in this region is Mount Etna, located in Far North Queensland. Mount Etna is considered one of the most active volcanoes in Australia, with its last eruption occurring in 1995.
Other active volcanoes on the east coast of Australia include:
- Mount Gambier, located in South Australia
- Tumut, located in New South Wales
- The Glass House Mountains, located in Queensland
Active Volcanoes in the Bass Strait
The Bass Strait is home to a few volcanic islands, including King Island and Flinders Island. These islands were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and are now home to unique flora and fauna.
Conclusion
Australia is home to a few active volcanoes, with the majority located on the east coast and in the Bass Strait. While these volcanoes are not currently erupting, they have the potential to do so in the future. It's important to be aware of the potential hazards associated with living near an active volcano and to have an emergency plan in place.
