Mt. Erebus

Overview

Introduction

Named for one of the ships of explorer James Ross and located on Ross Island, Mount Erebus is one of three active volcanoes on the Antarctic continent and the southernmost active volcano in the world. Scientists estimate that the volcano erupts at least once or twice a day. One of only three volcanoes in the world that has a permanent lava lake, Erebus vents significant amounts of chlorine, sulfur dioxide and fluorine, contributing to the growing diameter of the area's infamous ozone hole. The completely snowcapped peak is 12,450 ft/3,800 m high and is visible from McMurdo Station. The volcano was first climbed and measured in 1908 by members of Ernest Shackleton's expedition. Ascents are now regulated and require multiple permits and guides.

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