In
June 1991, the second largest volcanic eruption of the twentieth
century took place on the island of Luzon in the Philippines, a mere 90
kilometers (55 miles) northwest of the capital city Manila. Up to 800
people were killed and 100,000 became homeless following the Mount
Pinatubo eruption, which climaxed with nine hours of eruption on June 15,
1991. On June 15, millions of tons of sulfur dioxide were discharged
into the atmosphere, resulting in a decrease in the temperature
worldwide over the next few years. Mount Pinatubo is part of a chain of
composite volcanoes along the Luzon arc on the west coast of the island
(area map). The arc of volcanoes is due to the subduction of the Manila
trench to the west. The volcano experienced major eruptions
approximately 500, 3000, and 5500 years ago.
