Morphology and microclimate of a notable glaciovolcanic cave, Mount Meager, Canada.
Back to previous page
| Authors: | Stenner, C; Graham, K; Paton, M; Nash, J; Cable, ML; Williams-Jones, G |
| Year: | 2025 |
| Journal: | Proceedings of the 19th International Congress of Speleology, Brazil. 5:163-167 PDF |
| Title: | Morphology and microclimate of a notable glaciovolcanic cave, Mount Meager, Canada. |
| Abstract: | Within the Garibaldi Volcanic Belt, British Columbia, lies Mount Meager Volcanic Complex (Q̓welq̓welústen), a glaciated volcanic massif which last erupted approximately 2360 a. B.P. A novel glaciovolcanic cave system was first observed in the Job Glacier at Q̓welq̓ welústen in 2016. Exploration was enabled by hybrid Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), while combined LiDAR and survey data revealed cave morphology. Investigations revealed the geothermal emissions and microclimate which shaped glaciovolcanic cave geomorphology. The cave was formed from thermal flux originating from subglacial fumaroles and heated ground surfaces in the underlying edifice, combined with glacial ablation, which melted channels through the ice to the glacier surface. Subglacial rock surface temperatures of 94°C along with multiple distant fumarole vents resulted in speleogenesis of a multi-level cave system. Two primary chambers concentrated around fumaroles were joined by a conduit passage along the rock-ice margin. Minerals associated with fumarolic activity and hydrothermal alteration confirm historical and ongoing subglacial volcanic activity. Thermal flux and chimney effects to airflow influence distribution patterns of diverse volcanic gases, with H2S, SO2, CO2, and CO present. Cave morphology and minerology data support the assertion that subglacial cavities were exposed by glacial retreat rather than caused by novel volcanic activity. |
Departmental members may update their publication list.