The mud volcanoes at Santa Barbara and Aragona (Sicily, Italy): a contribution to risk assessment

Abstract. The Santa Barbara and Aragona areas are affected by mud volcanism (MV) phenomena, consisting of continuous or intermittent emission mud, water, gases. This activity could be interrupted paroxysmal events, with an eruptive column composed mainly clay material, They the most hazardous today it is impossible to define potential parameters for modelling phenomenon. In 2017, two digital surface models (DSMs) were performed drone in both areas, thus allowing mapping zones covered previous events. Detailed information about past paroxysms was obtained from historical sources, and, analysis 2017 DSMs, a preliminary hazard assessment carried out first time at sites. Two potentially paroxysm surfaces 0.12 0.20 km2 respectively defined. May 2020, Aragona, new 8721 m2. After this, detailed DSM collected aim make comparison one. Since seismic station installed Barbara. From results, events ambient noise showed frequency 5–10 Hz.