Researchers, led by Dávid Karátson from the Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) in Hungary, have uncovered evidence of a massive volcanic eruption that occurred approximately 13.06 million years ago.
This eruption, known as the "Dobi eruption," spanned over 3,000 square kilometers, stretching from the eastern edge of the Mátra Mountains to the Tokaj Mountains. The eruption originated from the shallow waters of the Paratethys Sea, a vast inland sea that existed at the time.
The volume of material ejected is estimated to be at least 200 cubic kilometers, classifying it as a VEI 7 eruption. The interaction of seawater and magma "pulverized" the magma, resulting in fine ash and pumice. Chemical analysis indicates that the magma originated from multiple sources.
Despite the eruption occurring underwater, the majority of the ash deposits were found on land. This is evidenced by the presence of plant remains, such as stems, leaves, and charred tree trunks, in the lower layers of the deposits. These remains provide a snapshot of the ancient ecosystem.
The Dobi eruption, similar to the famous Ipolytarnóc site, instantly preserved the ancient environment. Further research is expected to reveal more such sites, providing valuable insights into the volcanism of Northern Hungary.
The research was directed by Dávid Karátson, head of the Department of Physical Geography at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), and involved scientists from five countries.