The Role of Tectonic Stress in Triggering Large Silicic Caldera Eruptions

We utilize 3‐D temperature‐dependent viscoelastic finite element models to investigate the mechanical response of the host rock supporting large caldera‐size magma reservoirs (volumes >102 km3) to local tectonic stresses. The mechanical stability of the host rock is used to determine the maximum predicted repose intervals and magma flux rates that systems may experience before successive eruption is triggered. Numerical results indicate that regional extension decreases the stability of the roof rock overlying a magma reservoir, thereby promoting early‐onset caldera collapse. Alternatively, moderate amounts of compression (≤10 mm/year) on relatively short timescales (