Top 12: Most Recent Supermassive Volcanic Events

A supervolcano is any volcano capable of producing a volcanic eruption with an ejecta volume greater than 1,000 km³ (240 mi³).

Volcanic eruptions are classified using the Volcanic Explosivity Index, or VEI:

VEI 8 eruptions are colossal events that throw out at least 1,000 km³ (240 mi³) Dense Rock Equivalent (DRE) of ejecta.

VEI 7 eruptions eject at least 100 km³ (24 mi³) DRE.

This eruptions typically cover huge areas with lava and volcanic ash and cause a long-lasting change to weather (such as the triggering of a small ice age) sufficient to threaten species with extinction and are so powerful that they often form circular calderas rather than cones because the downward withdrawal of magma causes the overlying mass to collapse and fill the void magma chamber beneath.

1. Mount Tambora (Indonesia)

This eruption took place in 1815. The following year, 1816, became known as the Year Without a Summer.

Years ago: 197
Ejecta Volume: 160 km³ (VEI 7)

2. Baekdu Mountain or Changbai Mountain (China / North Korea)