volcanic earthquake

Volcanic earthquakes are distinct from tectonic earthquakes, though both are related to geological processes. While most major earthquakes occur along the boundaries of tectonic plates, volcanic earthquakes are associated with volcanic activity. These seismic events are likely caused by the sudden movement of rock masses near a volcano, potentially influenced by heat from magma or escaping gases under pressure.1

There is a notable correlation between the locations of volcanoes and major earthquakes, particularly along the Circum-Pacific Belt. However, the epicenters of most shallow earthquakes are not directly beneath active volcanoes, suggesting that both phenomena often stem from the same underlying tectonic processes rather than a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Instruments called seismographs are used to detect and record these seismic waves.12