Environment

NASA's observatory has released a new image of the Sáttítla Highlands, located in Northern California, an area renowned for its seismic activity and ancient lava flows.

Captured on October 7, 2024, by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) aboard Landsat 8, the photograph showcases the region’s barren lava fields and volcanic formations, which are part of the national park.

At the heart of this rugged landscape lies Medicine Lake Volcano, a massive dormant volcano whose past activity has significantly shaped the area’s terrain.

Although considered dormant, the U.S. Geological Survey categorizes Medicine Lake as a "high-risk volcano," with the potential to erupt at any time.

On 7 January, the White House said: about the national park: "At the new monument's core sits the Medicine Lake Volcano, a massive dormant volcano covering an expanse roughly 10 times that of Mount St. Helens in Washington. The protection of the Sáttítla Highlands conserves a diverse array of natural and scientific resources, ensuring that the cultural, historical, and scientific values of this area, shaped by its volcano, endure for the benefit of all Americans."

(QG - Source: Newsweek / Picture: © Unsplash)