Harrat Rahat

Ḥarrat Rahāṭ[1] (Arabic: حَرَّة رَهَاط) is a volcanic lava field in the Hejazi region of Saudi Arabia. In 1256 CE, a 0.5 km3 (0.12 cu mi) lava flow erupted from six aligned scoria cones, and traveled 23 km (14 mi) to within 4 km (2.5 mi) of the Islamic holy city of Medina; this was its last eruption. There were earlier eruptions, such as in 641 CE, which made finger-like flows to the east of the 1256 CE flow.[2] It is the biggest lava field in Saudi Arabia. Nearby is Al Wahbah crater.

Harrat Rahat
Satellite picture of the northern part of the lava field
Highest point
Elevation1,744 m (5,722 ft)
Coordinates23°5′0″N 39°47′0″E
Naming
Native nameحَرَّة رَهَاط  (Arabic)
Geography
LocationHejaz, Saudi Arabia
Geology
Mountain typeVolcanic field
Last eruptionJune to July 1256

There has been recent increase in seismic activitiy since 2009.[3]

See also

Youtube video: The Active Volcano in Saudi Arabia; Harrat Rahat

References

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