Eruptions
A recent eruption began in August 2006 and ended in January 2007. The volcano erupted again in February 2007, and most recently on 21 September 2008.
A recent eruption began in August 2006 and ended in January 2007. The volcano erupted again in February 2007, and most recently on 21 September 2008.
Piton de la Fournaise ("The Peak of the Furnace")
Piton de la Fournaise with its height of about 2,631 m is a shield volcano in the eastern part of the island. Since 1980, it has been consistently monitored by volcano experts including scientists and government surveillance, just in case an evacuation of residents and tourists is required.
Many craters and spatter cones can be found inside the caldera and on the outer slopes of the volcano. There is a small but noticeable crater at the beginning of the path which leads to the summit. It is known as "formica leo", named for its shape that is similar to the pitfall built by the antlion.