Limnic Eruptions

A limnic eruption, also known as a lake overturn, is a rare type of natural disaster in which dissolved carbon dioxide suddenly erupts from deep lake waters, forming a gas cloud capable of suffocating wildlife, livestock, and humans. A limnic eruption may also cause tsunamis as the rising CO 2 displaces water. Scientists believe earthquakes, volcanic activity, and other explosive events can serve as triggers for limnic eruptions. Lakes in which such activity occurs are referred to as limnically active lakes or exploding lakes. Some features of limnically active lakes include: • CO 2-saturated incoming water • A cool lake bottom indicating an absence of direct volcanic interaction with lake waters • An upper and lower thermal layer with differing CO 2 saturations • Proximity to areas with volcanic activity.

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