After checking in at so many volcanoes with the word "龖龘", I was given a special summer emergency safety guide

In the public's impression, volcanoes may have iconic "high-end and classy" volcanic cones like the Tianchi volcano in Changbai Mountain, or may be like the large active volcano in Italy, which continuously carries out mild volcanic activities and regularly spews magma. But do you know? There is also a Longgang volcano group in the world with steep cliffs and peaks, beautiful mountains and winding paths!

Tianchi Volcano in Changbai Mountain, Jilin Province (left, original image) and Stromboli Volcano in Italy (right, image from the Internet)

The Longgang volcanic group in Jilin is located in Huinan County, Jingyu County and Fusong County of Tonghua City, Jilin Province. There are more than 260 volcanic cones in the distribution area of ​​the volcanic group. The main volcanoes are Longquan Longwan Volcano, Donglongwan Volcano, Nanlongwan Volcano, Sanjiaolongwan Volcano, Dalongwan Volcano, Erlongwan Volcano, Xiaolongwan Volcano, Sihailongwan Volcano, Jinlongdingzi Volcano, etc. Volcanic lakes of various shapes are like pearls scattered among the mountains. Among them, Jinlongdingzi Volcano is an active volcano, and the last eruption was about 1500 to 1600 years ago. The most famous scenery of the Longgang volcanic group is Sanjiaolongwan Volcano, which is named because the water surface of the volcanic lake is triangular and there is a triangular boulder about 30 meters high standing on the south side of the lake. Looking down at the panoramic view of the Longgang volcanic group, the mountains are like coiled dragons, the lakes are like jasper, the mountains and waters are like picturesque, and the infinite youthful vitality of nature is everywhere! There are so many volcanoes with the word "龙龖龘" on them. If you choose to visit them in the summer, please check out this "privately customized" emergency safety guide!

Spatial layout of the "Balong Bay" of the Longgang volcano group in Jilin Province (left, original image) and a bird's-eye view of the Sanjiaolongwan volcano (right, from the Internet)

Diaoshuihu Waterfall in the autumn and summer of Sanjiaolong Bay Volcano (left and middle pictures) and Maar Lake in the Sanjiaolong Bay Volcano in autumn (right picture) (Pictures from the Internet)

1. Learn about the activities of the Longgang volcano group (Jinlongdingzi volcano) in advance

Jinlongdingzi Volcano of the Longgang Volcano Group is an active volcano, and the last eruption was about 1500 to 1600 years ago. At present, the Longgang Volcano Group (Jinlongdingzi Volcano) is still one of the active volcanoes monitored and studied globally. During the period of 2015-2023, more than 140 earthquakes of magnitude 0 or above occurred in the Longgang Volcanic Area, and the largest earthquake was the ML3.8 earthquake in 2018 (monitoring data source: Institute of Volcanology, China Earthquake Administration and Jilin Provincial Seismological Bureau). Existing monitoring and research data show that there are still magma chambers deep underground in the Longgang Volcanic Area. At the same time, the level of microseismic activity in the volcanic area is significantly higher than that in its surrounding areas. Therefore, if you plan to travel to the volcanic area, you need to understand the recent seismic activity in the volcanic area in advance, and you can also consult local relevant monitoring and research institutions to avoid panic caused by earthquakes.

2. Understand the local emergency plans and response mechanisms in advance

The Longgang volcanic group in Jilin Province is a large basaltic monogenetic volcanic group. The volcanic area is mainly composed of basaltic pumice, basaltic clastic rock, volcanic eruption sediments, etc. The exposed surface strata have poor consolidation and the soil layer is relatively loose. In summer (June-August), the volcanic area has more precipitation. Continuous large amounts of rainfall can saturate the water content of the soil. In addition, there are many areas with large slopes in the volcanic area, which are prone to sudden geological disasters such as rockfall, landslides, and mudslides in valleys. Many local relevant agencies have scientifically formulated relevant emergency plans and emergency response mechanisms, and have scientifically monitored relevant geological disasters. Once a relevant geological disaster occurs, the local relevant agencies will promptly release emergency information to protect the safety of local residents and tourists. Please read and understand the relevant emergency plans and emergency response mechanisms in a timely manner.

3. Understand the weather conditions in the volcanic area in advance

Among the Longgang volcanoes in Jilin Province, the Dalongwan and Sanjiaolongwan volcanoes are highly developed, while the other volcanoes are still in the semi-developed or undeveloped stage. The mountain climate in the volcanic area is relatively obvious (a local microclimate formed by the influence of altitude and mountain terrain). It is mainly manifested in the following ways: (1) the temperature changes rapidly in the mountains, and the temperature difference is relatively large; (2) the humidity is high, which is easy to form clouds and fog; (3) the change of air pressure in the mountains can easily affect the air flow and the change of weather; (4) the wind speed and wind direction change frequently, such as the wind speed at the wind outlet of the volcanic lake is often large. In addition, the volcanic area has steep mountains, strange terrain, tall and dense trees, and the weather conditions are prone to sudden changes. Therefore, before departure, be sure to check the local weather forecast in the volcanic area or consult the local travel agency for weather conditions. It is best to understand the weather conditions in the days before and after the trip to the volcanic area in advance. If there is a big weather change, you should decisively cancel the trip. After entering the volcanic area, you should also pay attention to the climate and environmental changes in the volcanic area at any time. Bring suitable clothing to cope with possible cold, rainy or strong winds. If a weather warning is issued locally, please be cautious when entering the volcanic area. Remember not to enter the volcanic area under severe weather conditions, and do not enter undeveloped areas without permission.

The wind speed near the Nanlongwan crater is significantly higher, and the wind speed and direction change frequently (original image)

4. Outdoor mountaineering or hiking clothing and equipment

The danger of mountaineering in volcanic areas is often overlooked, especially when people travel blindly without any professional knowledge and experience. The Longgang volcanic group is about 1,200 meters above sea level, with a relative altitude of 500 to 700 meters. The Longgang volcanic group is located in the forest area. In summer, mosquitoes and other activities are relatively active. The geological terrain of the volcanic area is relatively complex and special. It is recommended to wear light outdoor professional mountaineering shoes or hiking shoes and mosquito-proof outdoor activity clothing in summer, and wear sun hats and sunglasses to prevent summer ultraviolet sunburn. It is recommended to choose a light and easy-to-carry raincoat. During the sightseeing stay in the Longgang volcanic area, try not to use an umbrella, because there are often strong winds or windy and rainy weather in the volcanic area, and there is a risk of being blown away by strong winds or struck by lightning. In addition, if you encounter thunderstorms in the volcanic area in summer, remember not to take shelter under a big tree to avoid being struck by lightning.

What do mountaineers wear and what equipment they wear in volcanic areas (original image)

5. Avoid going to the safety warning area and undeveloped wild mountain areas in the volcanic area . The Longgang volcanic group has pleasant scenery and enjoys the reputation of "Little Stone Pool" by the Northeast people. The beautiful picture of "everything seems to be floating in the air without support" can appear in front of us instantly, but most of the volcanic lakes concentrated in the volcanic area are very deep. For example, the maximum water depth at the edge of the Triceratops Bay Maar Lake is 21 meters. Therefore, remember not to fish, play, swim or check in and take photos in the warning area by the lake. In addition, the mountain walls around the volcanic lake are steep and rugged. Remember not to climb mountains around the volcanic lake to avoid falling into danger and causing safety accidents. Be sure to follow all safety instructions and regulations in the volcanic area. If you go to check in in summer, remember to take a detour if the hiking or tourism route is within the warning range and near the disaster-prone areas such as mudslides and landslides. If you have plans to climb in the volcanic area, you must be fully prepared before climbing, plan a safe route in advance, and understand the road conditions and weather in the mountains. In addition, there are some "wild attractions" in the volcanic area that are undeveloped scenic areas. Do not visit undeveloped wild areas, especially closed management areas, to avoid unexpected safety accidents.

6. Choose to travel with experienced people or professional guides

Climbing, hiking or playing in the volcanic area requires good physical fitness and physical support, and should be done according to one's own situation. Before going to the volcanic area to check in, learn more about the necessary knowledge of climbing, hiking or playing in the volcanic area, and choose to travel with people with rich experience. You can also choose to sign up for a tour group or hire a local guide to check in in the volcanic area. They can provide you with professional explanations and travel guidance about the Longgang volcanic group, making your trip richer and safer. The Longgang volcanic group in Jilin Province is not only a holy place for tourist check-ins, but also an excellent place for volcanic monitoring and research. If you meet some earthquake and volcano-related scientific researchers while playing in the volcanic area, you might as well listen to their experience and experience in the research of the Longgang volcanic group, which will give you a new understanding of these volcanoes and a different travel experience.

Jilin Provincial Seismological Bureau conducts earthquake and volcano-related geological disaster survey in Longgang volcanic area (original image)

7. Transportation Arrangements

If you travel by car to the Longgang volcanic area, you should plan your trip reasonably in advance, familiarize yourself with the driving route, and do a good job of vehicle inspection. It is easy to encounter rainy weather during the summer trip, and the roads in the volcanic area are rugged. Remember to control your speed. When passing through low-lying sections with accumulated water and flooded bridges, you should get off the car to test and check first. Only when you are sure there is no danger can you pass at a low speed. If you go by public transportation, plan the transportation methods to and from the volcanic area in advance. If you need to change to public transportation, plan the transfer time and be familiar with the transportation routes.

8. Preparation of portable supplies and emergency items

Before going to the volcanic area for mountaineering, hiking or sightseeing, bring an appropriate amount of water and food. Although there are convenient tourist service points or supermarkets in the scenic area and nearby villages and towns, they are all located in fixed locations and are not accessible at any time and anywhere. The food you carry with you should be light and filling. You can bring your own water cup or bottled drinking water, and the water storage containers and drinking utensils must be clean. Try not to drink raw water, because the seemingly pure mountain springs or streams in the volcanic area in summer may hide microorganisms that are invisible to the naked eye. Remember not to rashly eat wild vegetables, wild mushrooms, etc. in the volcanic area to avoid food poisoning.

In addition, the basalt in the volcanic area is relatively hard and sharp, and it is inevitable that there will be bumps when traveling outdoors. Before going to the Longgang volcano group to play and check in, be sure to prepare some emergency items to carry with you, such as tissues, band-aids, toilet water, painkillers, etc. At the same time, prepare a mobile power supply (power bank) to ensure that the communication equipment has sufficient power so that you can call for help in an emergency.

9. Accommodation considerations and outdoor camping safety

The peak season for tourism in the Longgang Volcano Group in Jilin Province is generally in summer, when accommodation resources in and around the volcanic scenic area are relatively tight. If you plan to stay near the scenic area, it is recommended to book a hotel or guesthouse in advance. Compared with the accommodation within the Changbai Mountain Tianchi Volcanic Scenic Area, the accommodation within the Longgang Volcanic Scenic Area is equipped with fewer hot spring facilities. Natural volcanic hot spring water contains trace elements and trace amounts of CO2, Rn and other gases. Hot spring bathing should be determined according to one's own health conditions. You should be familiar with the accommodation environment, understand the fire-fighting facilities, and have fire prevention awareness and self-rescue knowledge.

Nowadays, camping in the wild is popular among contemporary people, especially in the volcanic areas with the word "Longlong" (dragon dragon) in their names. You can't just go camping because camping in the volcanic areas requires certain geographical and geological knowledge, and more importantly, some wilderness survival experience. You must be familiar with the surrounding environment and weather conditions in advance, and remember to prepare fire and waterproof strategies for camping in the wild. Try to choose a camping site in a hard and flat area, and make sure it is away from areas prone to geological disasters. While avoiding camping alone in the wild, make emergency preparations for food reserves, water safety, and emergency situations.

Camping site in the Ulanqab volcanic area (Photo from the Internet)

10. Respect local culture and environmental protection

There are more than 10 ethnic groups in Jingyu County, Huinan County and Fusong County of Jilin Province, including Han, Manchu, Chao, Mongolian, Hui, Xibe, etc., which have nurtured a rich and colorful ethnic culture. While checking in and enjoying the beauty of the Longgang Volcano Group, experiencing more local ethnic customs and cultural traditions will make your trip to the Longgang Volcano Group more colorful!

The Longgang volcanic group distribution area in Jilin Province is a national nature reserve. There are more than 500 species of vegetation in the volcanic area, including ginseng, gastrodia, Fritillaria cirrhosa and other precious medicinal plants. About 56 species of wild animals thrive in the volcanic area, and hares, roe deer, pheasants and other animals can be seen everywhere in the streams and valleys. While enjoying nature in the Longgang volcanic group, we should also keep in mind the concept of environmental protection and civilized play. Respect nature, protect the environment, do not litter, pack the garbage and throw it in the designated location. Please do not pick plants in the scenic area, catch animals and dig rocks in the mountain. Start with me and consciously maintain the overall image of the tourist destination.

Ginseng growing in the forest area of ​​Jilin Province (Photo from the Internet)

Supplementary Science

1. National hero General Yang Jingyu

The Longgang volcanic group in Jilin is located in Huinan County, Jingyu County and Fusong County in Tonghua City, Jilin Province. Jingyu County is named after a hero. Jingyu County was formerly known as Mengjiang County. On February 23, 1940, the national hero General Yang Jingyu died here. Yang Jingyu (1905-1940), formerly known as Ma Shangde, with the courtesy name Jisheng, was a Han Chinese from Queshan County, Henan Province. He was an outstanding member of the Communist Party of China, a proletarian revolutionary, a military strategist, a famous anti-Japanese national hero, one of the founders of the Hubei-Henan-Anhui Soviet Area and its Red Army, and one of the main founders and leaders of the Northeast Anti-Japanese Allied Forces. In 1932, he was entrusted by the Party Central Committee to organize the Anti-Japanese Allied Forces in the Northeast, and served as the commander-in-chief and political commissar of the Anti-Japanese Allied Forces. He led the Northeast Army and the people to fight the Japanese invaders in the white mountains and black waters. In the ice and snow, with no ammunition or food, he fought alone with a large number of Japanese invaders for several days and nights and died heroically. General Yang Jingyu was named one of the 100 heroes and models who made outstanding contributions to the founding of New China. The martyrdom site and memorial hall of General Yang Jingyu in Jingyu County have become a patriotic education base for people to carry forward the spirit of the Chinese nation, remember revolutionary martyrs, and inherit the red gene.

2. Maar Lake, crater lake, volcanic lake

Maar Lake: The English word "Maar" comes from the Latin word "mare", which means swamp or lake. It is the name given by residents of the Rhine region of Germany to some small circular lakes and swamps in the area. The hot magma deep in the earth rises along the fault channel and encounters groundwater during the rise. When the magma and water undergo a mechanical mixture of heat and cold, a large amount of steam is generated, the volume expands rapidly, and a violent explosion occurs. The explosion breaks through the loose sedimentary cover and forms a circular or nearly circular depression. After the volcanic eruption subsides, the bottom of the crater cuts into the groundwater surface, and the lake is formed by atmospheric precipitation and accumulated water.

The formation process of Maar Lake (Photo from "National Geographic China")

Crater Lake: Crater Lake, also known as Volcanic Crater Lake, refers to a funnel-shaped depression formed by the collapse of the crater after a volcanic eruption, and then a lake formed by the accumulation of water. The hot underground magma rises and erupts along the fractures of the earth's crust. When the ejecta that rushes to the sky falls along a parabolic path, it will accumulate around the vent to form a conical hill. Repeated eruptions will form a volcanic cone. The top of the volcanic cone will collapse into a funnel-shaped depression without continuous magma supply support. Later, through precipitation, snow melting, groundwater recharge, etc., the collapsed crater gradually stores water and eventually forms a lake.

The formation process of the crater lake (picture from "National Geographic China")

There are three main forms of volcanic lakes (abbreviated as volcanic lakes): crater lakes, maar lakes and volcanic barrier lakes. A crater lake requires a volcanic eruption to create a crater or caldera that can be used to "hold water". If this natural "water basin" happens to be located in an area with more precipitation and has a certain amount of groundwater recharge, water will accumulate to form a maar lake, which was previously called a "low-lying crater lake" because it is not like the Tianchi Lake in Changbai Mountain, which is lifted on the top of a high mountain. A volcanic barrier lake refers to a barrier lake formed when a volcano near a river erupts and the hot magma flows into the river, blocking or partially blocking the direction of the river, and storing water to a certain extent.

The formation process of the volcanic barrier lake (Photo from China National Geography)

References in this issue:

[1] Yuan Limei and Wang Mingming. The unity of national spirit and patriotism: commemorating the 50th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Theoretical Observation, 1995, 4, 3.

[2]Xu Zhitao, Sun Liying, Li Zhongwei, Li Mengmeng, et al. Origin and tectonic significance of the Early Pleistocene basaltic lava in the Longgang volcanic area: Evidence from Rb-Sr isotope dating, elemental geochemistry and Pb isotope. Journal of Jilin University (Earth Science Edition), 2023, 53(3), 887-903.

[3] Fan Qicheng, Liu Ruoxin, Wei Haiquan, Li Ni. Petrology and geochemistry of the modern active volcano Jinlongdingzi, Longgang. Acta Petrologica Sinica, 1999, 15(4), 6.

[4] Yu Dejiang, Zong Shengwei, Du Haibo, Wang Lei. Analysis of climate change in the eastern forest area of ​​Jilin Province. Agriculture and Technology, 2015, 35(1), 4.

[5] Zhao Haiqing, Li Guangjie, Zhang Zhehuan. Assessment of geological hazards in the eastern mountainous area of ​​Jilin Province. Journal of Jilin University: Earth Science Edition, 2004, 34(1), 6.

[6]Xu, ZT, Sun, LY, Ye, XQ, Pan, XD et al. U–Pb geochronology and geochemistry of dikes in the Changbaishan Tianchi volcanic field (NE China) and their relations with the coeval Jingbohu and Longgang monogenetic volcanic fields. International Geology Review, 2022, 66 (3), 814-831.

This issue of science popularization ends! Friends, see you next time!

This issue's author: Xu Zhitao Ventura G

Planning: Ye Xiqing Salvatore G

Editor: Sun Liying Xu Dan

Review: Pan Xiaodong, Kang Jianhong, Cao Li, Chen Junjie, Lu Yanhong, Chen Bo, Li Zhongwei, Pang Jingyuan

Publicity: Zhu Daqing, Song Yujia, Li Mengmeng, Gu Guohui, Guan Sheng, Feng Jingqiao, Ma Fei, Qi Wei, Wu Chengzhi, Liu Songjun

Produced by: Institute of Volcanology, China Earthquake Administration, Jilin Province Earthquake Administration, Etna Observatory, Catania, Italy, Italian Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (Rome), Jilin Changbai Mountain Volcano National Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Jilin Longgang Volcano Monitoring Station, Jilin Changbai Mountain Tianchi Volcano Monitoring Station

Disclaimer: All pictures and texts in this article are for public benefit and do not have any commercial value.