Mrs. McElwee's Class: geology

Showing posts with label geology. Show all posts

Sunday, January 12, 2025

HAWAII KILAUEA VOLCANO WEBCAMS

Livestream video in Hawaii:

Visit this link to see the static webcams at the Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii!

https://www.nps.gov/havo/learn/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm

Photo cred: Mrs. McElwee

Saturday, January 11, 2025

HVERIR - ICELAND

Hverir (Hot Springs), also known as the Namafjall Geothermal area, is an impressive geothermal valley not far from Krafla and Lake Myvatn. It's one of Iceland's most impressive geothermal areas (I liked it better than Geysir), and it's also very accessible. Be careful, there are very few safety rails or guidelines (really, none!). We were able to wander at will. My best advice is to walk on well-worn paths. Remember, as in many places on the island, Iceland can be dangerous, and you always want to be aware of your surroundings.

This was our first run-in with Myvatn's famous midges (they tiny flying insects that don't seem to have a purpose except for being irritating), and we realized what a pain they are. In warmer months, protective gear and/or bug spray really will be helpful. They thrive in warm weather, and they obviously like these warm geothermal features. Be prepared because the geothermal features here are amazing. It's going to be stinky -- all those great hydrogen sulfide fumes, but it's worth it. The bubbling pools and mud pots alongside beautiful colors make for an otherworldly landscape.

Parking is free, but there are no WCs. All these videos are from June 2023.

HEADPHONES ON! You want to hear the noises of all the features.

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Deildartunguhver Hot Springs - Iceland

The water at Deildartunguhver Hot Springs emerges at a constant 207 degrees Fahrenheit, making it dangerous for those who venture too close. This is Europe's most powerful hot spring, gushing out almost 50 gallons of boiling water per second. Due to the sheer energy bubbling under Deildartunguhver, much of the water is used for heating Icelandic homes. All Icelandic hot water comes from hot springs such as this. Signs warn you not to touch the water. We enjoyed the "mist" as we took an up close view, for sure!

Deildartunguhver is located off highway 50 near Reykholt. Free to park.