Melbourne's Forgotten Volcanoes

Could a volcanic eruption really happen in the heart of Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD)? In this video, we explore the geological history of the region and the surprising volcanic activity that has shaped Melbourne’s landscape over millions of years. Melbourne, known for its modern skyline and vibrant city life, sits on ancient volcanic plains, remnants of eruptions from the the Older Volcanics along with more recent widespread eruptions from the Newer Volcanics Province, which stretches across western Victoria. But what does this mean for the future?

Could the city be at risk of another eruption, and if so, what would it look like? In this video, we dive deep into the Cosgrove Hotspot, the geological forces behind Melbourne's volcanic past, and how the landscape around the CBD is covered in basaltic lava flows that date back millions of years.

We'll explain the potential dangers a basaltic volcanic eruption may pose to a bustling urban environment like Melbourne. Learn how volcanic vents discovered beneath the city during construction projects remind us of the seismic forces lying dormant below. We'll also take you through the catastrophic effects a volcanic eruption could have in a modern city—imagine lava flows down Bourke Street, ash clouds blocking out the sun, and widespread destruction of critical infrastructure.

Drawing comparisons to similar volcanic fields, such as Auckland's active volcanic landscape, we discuss the steps scientists are taking to monitor and predict volcanic activity in Melbourne. Whether you're a geology enthusiast or someone curious about the hidden dangers beneath Australia’s second-largest city, this video offers a fascinating look at the intersection of urban life and volcanic risk.

Make sure to watch until the end to understand what Melbourne's future could hold and how prepared the city is for this unpredictable natural disaster.