Unraveling the Impact: Analyzing the Effects of the 2022 Eruption on Stratospheric Chemistry and Dynamics
The massive eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano in January 2022 injected an unprecedented amount of water vapor into the stratosphere, leading to significant changes in its chemistry and dynamics. A recent study found that the eruption caused up to 7% ozone layer depletion over large areas of the Southern Hemisphere. The injection of water vapor and sulfur dioxide from the eruption led to the formation of sulfate aerosols, triggering a chain of events that altered the concentrations of various compounds, including ozone. The researchers used satellite data to track the movement of water vapor and monitor changes in temperature and chemical levels. The study highlights the long-term impact of volcanic eruptions on the stratosphere and the potential for amplified ozone losses in the future.