LUSI: The geology and engineering of a mud volcano disaster in Java
Episode 24
In May 2006, a new mud volcano erupted adjacent to an exploratory gas well in eastern Java. Colloquially called LUSI (Lumpur Sidoarjo), the mud volcano has until recently maintained continuous and high mud flow-rates at high temperatures. Although there is much debate amongst geoscientists about the cause, there is no doubt about the devestating social and economic impact to the many thousands of people made homeless and to the economy of the area. Sarah talks to David Shilston, engineering geologist and President of the Geological Society, about LUSI's evolution, impact, and future.