Hong Kong is one of the leading financial centers in Asia and around the world. It is located in a picturesque, seismically rather quiet place. However, according to the latest data, the area is located right on an ancient volcano.
In 2012, researchers found that the historic center of Hong Kong, with its skyscrapers and modern highways, grew right on the mouth of an ancient supervolcano. According to experts, the volcano was once so large that it covered both the territory of the modern Kowloon Peninsula and the island of Hong Kong itself. The last time an eruption in this area took place about 140 million years ago, back in the Mesozoic Era. Researchers believe that it was this that caused the extinction of dinosaurs in this region. Having studied all the small islands and rocks of volcanic origin in the Sai Kun area, scientists have confirmed their hypothesis that once one of the most powerful volcanoes gradually sank underground.
Experts are aware of the existence of only fifty volcanoes of similar power, whose eruptions could cause radical climate changes, radically affect the landscape and lead to natural disasters. According to experts, the last time an eruption of a similar force occurred 27 thousand years ago on the territory of the North Island, which is part of New Zealand. Thanks to this cataclysm, Lake Taupo was formed. The worst of the consequences that can be caused by a volcanic eruption is a decrease in air temperature, created by the smallest ash particles floating in the atmosphere and preventing the sun's rays from reaching the earth. Also, the release of sulfuric gases as a result of the eruption can turn into acid rain.
The consequences of a volcanic activity of this magnitude can be catastrophic for the entire planet. However, scientists are in a hurry to allay the fears of Hong Kong residents, which have arisen in connection with the discovery. According to experts, a supervolcano located underground will never erupt again.
