This technique is based on the study of lava crystals that form after a volcanic eruption.

In a study, researchers at Stanford University analyzed crystals formed in 1959 following the eruption of Kīlauea volcano in Hawaii.

The special shape of these crystals can help estimate the next eruption, and computer simulations also come to the aid of experts.

In this way, estimation is possible without the need to organize underground excavations, which would be very difficult to perform.

Moreover, with the help of these data, researchers can also estimate the behavior of the lava that will be thrown out of the volcano, for example its direction of flow.

Thus, people living in areas that would be affected by an eruption will be able to be alerted in advance, before the lava river endangers their lives.

Unfortunately, the exact date of the next eruption cannot be estimated yet, but this new research method can provide important details to assess the effects it will have on the event.

The study was published in the journal Science Advances.