Conquering the Inferno: Meet the Fearless Lead Climber & Adventurer Behind Nat Geo’s Epic Expedition

Summary

Explorer: Lake of Fire uncovers the truth behind a volcanic thermal anomaly first discovered in 2001, offering new clues to predict volcanic eruptions globally.

The episode tracks the journey of volcanologist Dr. Emma Nicholson and lead climber Carla Pérez as they undertake a demanding expedition to research an uncommon lava lake situated on a distant volcano.

Enduring severe circumstances during filming, the team encountered various physical obstacles, such as treacherous waves, icy conditions, powerful winds, and poisonous gases. This emphasized the demanding aspect of studying Earth's inaccessible locations.

National Geographic’s Explorer series presents the captivating Explorer: Lake of Fire. This gripping episode delves into the exploration of a volcanic thermal anomaly discovered in 2001, unraveling its enigmatic truths. Similar to the intriguing Explorer: Lost in the Arctic, this installment uncovers unexplored corners of the world while showcasing the exceptional cinematography that National Geographic is known for.

Explorer: Lake of Fire features two prominent figures: volcanologist and National Geographic Explorer, Dr. Emma Nicholson, and lead climber Carla Pérez. Together, they embark on an arduous journey to scale one of the most remote volcanoes on the planet, gathering vital data in their quest to uncover a rare and scientifically significant marvel known as a lava lake. However, this expedition is far from effortless, as Explorer: Lake of Fire vividly portrays the physical challenges of studying Earth's inaccessible landscapes.

Dr. Emma Nicholson & Carla Pérez On Explorer: Lake Of Fire

Our website: The anomaly that you were looking into in this was first discovered in 2001. Why has it taken this long to get to the top and really study it?

Dr. Emma Nicholson: The identification of the anomaly and the proposed existence of a lava lake dates back to 2001. However, it wasn't until a recent study in either 2017 or 2018 that the confirmation of consistent temperatures with molten lava and the existence of a lava lake were made. Coincidentally, around the time this study was published, I had a chance conversation with someone after one of my seminars, which sparked my interest in this volcanic arc. Initially, I hadn't paid much attention to it as it is located in a less frequented area away from major populations. However, as I delved further into the topic, I became increasingly fascinated by the unique geological situation. Additionally, the opportunity to discover a new natural laboratory for studying volcanic processes was too enticing to ignore.

After speaking to some of the scientists involved in the initial discovery in 2001, I was informed that it was deemed impossible. This response ignited a fire within me as I do not like to be told that something cannot be achieved. Given my specialization in conducting research in remote and challenging locations, this expedition to the hard-to-reach volcanic site seemed like a perfect fit.

We attempted this in 2020, but it proved to be an immense challenge that we were unable to conquer. We were left with unfinished business, thinking that our opportunity had slipped away forever. However, I eagerly embraced this chance and it was the remarkable team we assembled that made it all achievable. With our exceptional climbing skills and the expertise of our outstanding scientific team, we were able to successfully accomplish our mission. It was truly an incredible sensation.

Carla, could you discuss the specific challenges associated with climbing a volcano, particularly this one?

Carla Pérez describes a challenging expedition that began with sailing in rough seas, causing most crew members to suffer from seasickness. Upon landing, they had to transport 3,000 kilos of equipment onto the beach amidst large waves and ice, which posed difficulties and dangers. They established a base camp in an exposed area, struggling to keep their tents intact. The subsequent climb presented additional challenges, such as extreme weather conditions with high humidity leading to whiteouts and icy terrain. The temperature fluctuations caused water to soak everything, resulting in both wetness and coldness. Moreover, the strong winds made navigating the glacier, although not excessively technical, a formidable task.

These are not typical mountain conditions for our teams. We would declare them unfit for climbing. This expedition was exceptional and extremely challenging. Our main focus was to gather extensive data for the scientific team and reach the summit to determine the presence of a lava lake.

In addition, we constantly had to protect ourselves from toxic gas plumes. Our sunglasses were often fogged up from humidity, hindering our vision and impeding our breathing. There was also the constant danger of scalding hot steam vents and treacherous crevices. Near the rim, we faced the risk of icy cliffs collapsing beneath our feet. In short, the entire expedition was filled with numerous life-threatening hazards, not solely during the ascent. We had to be meticulously prepared for any situation, as we were in an extremely remote location where seeking help was not possible if something went wrong.

Dr. Emma Nicholson: When it comes to volcanoes with glaciers, one crucial factor to consider is the immense heat generated by the volcanic activity. This heat not only permeates through the ground but also melts the base of the glaciers, rendering them highly mobile. In contrast to cold-based glaciers, which tend to remain stable, glaciers on volcanoes constantly undergo change. The volcanic heat causes crevasses to open and close, adding to our concerns.

In the show, you briefly mention lava lakes, but could you elaborate on their valuable nature and the significance of studying them?

Lava lakes serve as invaluable natural laboratories for studying volcanic processes. Unlike most volcanoes, where data is collected at the surface and then related to the hidden activity underneath, lava lakes provide a unique opportunity to directly observe and measure the activity within. By removing the metaphorical lid, we gain a clear understanding of the correlation between our measurements and the immediate volcanic activity.

This is crucial for refining our physical and chemical models used in forecasting eruptions at inaccessible volcanoes. Significant advancements in identifying eruption precursors and analyzing monitoring data have stemmed from the study of lava lake volcanoes. However, these volcanoes are rare due to the intricate balance of conditions required for their existence.

If lava is close to the surface, it will cool quickly and solidify into a dense plug, sealing the volcano. However, in cases where lava lakes remain stable for extended periods of time, there is a delicate balance between the pressure in the magma chamber, which forces the magma to the surface, and the pressure being too high, which could trigger an eruption. Very few places in the world meet these requirements. Hence, the opportunity to discover another one of these natural laboratories is highly appealing, as these features are not permanent and can be disrupted geologically. Lava lakes are transient and can drain away at any given moment.

Studying the transition from a stable lake to drainage is just as informative as studying the lake itself for understanding volcanic processes. In recent years, significant lava lakes like Ambrym and Kīlauea have been lost, though Kīlauea is showing signs of resurgence. Therefore, comprehending the stability and destabilization of lava lakes provides valuable insights for our knowledge.

If a lava lake exists, does that make it less likely for the volcano to erupt at the same time?

Lava lakes are classified as open-vent volcanoes, allowing gases to freely escape between eruptions. The release of gases and gas pressure is what drives explosive behavior in open-vent systems. Due to the freedom of gas release in lava lakes, it is challenging for enough pressure to accumulate for an eruption to occur.

Although explosive eruptions can still happen at lava lake volcanoes, they are not as common. Typically, these eruptions are triggered by a sudden influx of magma, surpassing the rate at which pressure can be released. This explains why lava lakes can maintain stability over extended periods, as they continuously release gases instead of building up pressure, akin to the behavior of a carbonated drink bottle.

Carla, I can imagine that your main priority in this role is to ensure everyone's safety. Considering the challenging conditions you mentioned earlier, how do you manage to give enough time for the required research while also ensuring everyone's safety and leaving at the right time?

Carla Pérez: It was a real challenge. Our main focus was to gather all the necessary data, but we faced limited opportunities due to unpredictable weather conditions. We typically had only one favorable day to attempt the ascent. Our goal was to reach the summit with at least two hours of clear weather to observe the lava lake. However, throughout the entire climb, we had to endure freezing temperatures, strong winds, and the challenging conditions I mentioned earlier.

Having good equipment was crucial, as was ensuring that everyone was physically and mentally prepared. The challenging weather conditions necessitated protection from various dangers, including wind, cold, and water. We needed to have the ability to change clothes and wear additional layers for warmth, as well as enough equipment for the climb.

As a guide, one of the most difficult moments for me was when we reached the summit and Emma expressed her desire to jump into the crater to observe a possible lava lake. I had to emphasize the importance of approaching the situation properly. Emma, being experienced in mountain climbing, understood this, but her eagerness to gather data was evident. It was tough because I could sense her passion and how much she wanted to stay there indefinitely to collect all the gas and other data.

Content had been managed effectively, thanks to the exceptional team we had. Each member involved in filming had extensive experience in mountaineering, and we were fortunate to have Freddie Wilkinson and the skilled scientist team. Emma, in particular, possessed vast knowledge in mountaineering, despite facing extreme weather conditions and physical limitations. Despite the challenges, she successfully collected data and operated the necessary devices. The entire endeavor proved to be a strenuous task for everyone involved.

Dr. Emma Nicholson: We posed quite a challenge to our mountaineering team. During our debriefing, we realized how easy it is to develop tunnel vision when you've spent years working toward a goal. As soon as we arrived on-site and started conducting our experiments, time seemed to accelerate at an alarming rate. Our focus became so intense that we almost lost sight of our surroundings and the harsh environment in which we were working. The reason for our success was the incredible support and situational awareness provided by Carla and Freddie. Their guidance allowed us the necessary space to fully concentrate on our tasks. In my past expeditions, I've had to wear multiple hats, leading to immense stress and inevitable compromises. Carla's expertise enabled us to dedicate our time more efficiently, ensuring we accomplished the work at hand.

There were multiple instances during this journey where things seemed incredibly challenging, as both of you mentioned. What were the lowest moments for each of you? I'm curious to know if they were similar.

Dr. Emma Nicholson: There were various points throughout the expedition where I genuinely experienced the pressure of planning for such a long time and covering such a great distance. Days and days of unfavorable weather and the struggle to find suitable routes, for instance, made me think, "This is impossible" and "I might have to return empty-handed once again, which would be devastating." Thankfully, we eventually found favorable weather conditions, but one of the defining moments for me was during the initial ascent.

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We were making our way up the mountain, and I have to admit, I was really struggling with the challenging conditions Carla had warned us about. The pressure was weighing on me as I knew my performance at the top could impact our ability to meet the weather deadline or even hinder the team's success. During a break, Carla looked at me and asked how I was doing. It was then that I realized it was a pivotal moment for me to muster up some inner strength. Somehow, I managed to find that strength and make it to the top. It was a low point for me, but also a moment of triumph.

As for Carla, her lowest point came when we first set sail on the boat. Initially, she was excited and eager, but a few hours later, she was struck with extreme seasickness. The following days were spent in agony, unable to even drink water. She contemplated leaving the boat and returning home. However, she eventually found solace in calming her mind and getting as much sleep as possible. Over time, Carla made peace with the ocean, and although the struggle with seasickness persisted, she became engrossed in the beauty and power of the waves and the vast ocean.

Dr. Emma Nicholson and I experience a common thread during our lowest moments: the feeling that we should be at the top of our game and leading in our respective fields. However, the physical challenges we face make us question our ability to fulfill our roles. Dealing with this situation is incredibly tough. When we eventually overcome it, the sense of accomplishment is overwhelming. Yet, in that particular moment, doubts about our competence arise due to various external factors.

About Explorer: Lake Of Fire

Back in 2001, advanced satellite technology detected an enigmatic "thermal anomaly" emanating from a previously uncharted volcano situated at the farthest corners of the world. Within the depths of this secluded island, there exists a potential treasure trove of insights that could revolutionize the way we forecast volcanic eruptions worldwide. The remote and inhospitable environment has, however, thwarted all previous attempts to ascend to its peak and uncover the secrets it safeguards. Nevertheless, a breakthrough has finally occurred, granting unprecedented access to the enigma that awaits within...

National Geographic’s Explorer: Lake of Fire premieres October 26th on National Geographic.