LOW FREQUENCY EARTHQUAKE AT FUJI VOLCANO, JAPAN

The activity of deep low frequency earthquakes beneath Fuji volcano became vigorous since October 2000. Hypocenters were distributed about 15km deep under Fuji volcano. Our seismic observation detected not only low frequency earthquakes but also high frequency ones. According to our observation, 20 to 40 high frequency earthquakes have been occurring in a year and shallow earthquakes have been also observed. The shallow seismicity has not changed associated with the low frequency earthquakes activity and no crustal deformation has been observed by tiltmeters and others. Therefore, these are not thought as urgent signals for volcanic eruptions.
In September 2003, small depressions and very weak fumarolic activity was detected in northeast flank of Fuji volcano. However, magmatic volcanic gas has not detected, therefore, it is not indicated as some precursor of volcanic eruption. (Later, this fumarole was proved that it is depended on the fermentation of underground wood ! )
If you want to get more information on Fuji volcano, please see Fuji volcano page in ERI of Tokyo uviversity


Examples of high frequency earthquake (upper) and low frequency earthquakes (lower) observed at the station situated at the summit of Fuji volcano.


Monthly number of low frequency earthquakes at Fuji volcano (until 31 October 2007).

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