Trees Signal Volcano Eruptions Before They Happen, Satellites Reveal
Trees may seem silent. However, they can signal danger before a volcano erupts. Scientists have discovered a surprising natural warning system. Trees near volcanoes change before eruptions occur. As a result, nature offers clues long before lava reaches the surface.
How Magma Affects Trees
Magma releases carbon dioxide as it rises underground. Therefore, nearby trees absorb more CO₂ than usual. This extra gas boosts photosynthesis. As a result, trees appear greener and healthier.
However, these changes stay invisible to the human eye.
Satellites That Can “See” Tree Stress
Satellites bridge the gap between nature and technology. For example, Sentinel-2 and Landsat monitor Earth’s surface from space. They use the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, or NDVI. This tool measures plant health and color changes.
Because of this, scientists can track subtle vegetation shifts in volcanic regions. Researchers studied Mount Etna in Italy. They noticed greener vegetation before magma movement increased. In many cases, these changes appeared days or weeks early. Therefore, trees provided valuable early warning signs.
In addition, the AVUELO mission tested this method in Costa Rica and Panama. The results confirmed its global potential.
A Powerful Addition to Volcano Monitoring
This method does not replace seismic sensors. Instead, it strengthens existing warning systems. It proves especially useful in remote or poorly monitored areas. As a result, communities gain extra time to prepare. Most importantly, this approach shows how ecosystems help protect people. Nature constantly communicates. Now, technology helps us listen more closely. By watching trees from space, scientists can better understand Earth’s warning signs. That knowledge may save lives.
