DIGIVOLCAN: a multi-parametric database for the volcano monitoring of the Canary Islands (Spain)

Modern volcanic monitoring requires managing multidisciplinary, multiparametric, large-volume datasets. A robust digital framework is therefore essential for integrating, managing, storing, processing, and visualizing these data streams consistently. Here, we present such a framework, comprising a SQL-based database, a Flask web application, and an automated scheduler that ensures continuous data ingestion and updating. 

Within the DIGIVOLCAN project, led by the Instituto Volcanológico de Canarias (INVOLCAN), we developed a multiparametric database to support volcano monitoring in the Canary Islands. The database integrates data from permanent monitoring networks, discrete field surveys, and remote sensing, and is implemented using PostgreSQL. Serving as the core of the framework, the database is optimized with indexed tables that enable rapid querying, even for datasets with millions of records. Spatial data are handled with PostGIS, a PostgreSQL extension that provides efficient spatial data storage and operations. In contrast, time-series data are managed with TimescaleDB, which significantly accelerates time-series queries. Together, these technologies ensure secure storage, high performance, and seamless interaction with the DIGIVOLCAN web interface, enabling rapid visualization of large, complex datasets. 

This digital infrastructure is designed to serve multiple user communities and operational needs. It provides accessible, high-level information to the general public, more detailed datasets to civil protection authorities, and comprehensive, multiparametric analyses to scientific committees during seismo-volcanic crises. The system functions as both an operational tool for routine daily monitoring and a rapid-response platform during volcanic emergencies, delivering advanced maps and time-series visualizations. In addition, it serves as a scientific research tool by facilitating the integrated analysis and comparison of geophysical and geochemical datasets, including compatibility with advanced AI-based data analysis workflows. 

Access to the database is provided through a web portal that implements role-based access control. At the basic level, intended for the general public, users can explore an interactive, real-time earthquake map of the Canary Islands with customizable filters for intuitive visualization. Higher access levels unlock additional functionality, allowing advanced users to visualize thematic maps and time-series plots of key volcano-monitoring parameters. These include, for example, gravimetry, ground deformation from GNSS and satellite interferometry, self-potential data, discrete and continuous diffuse soil gas fluxes (CO₂, H₂S), and numerous other raw and processed geophysical and geochemical variables. 

Finally, the modular architecture of the infrastructure enables straightforward expansion and long-term evolution, supporting the integration of new monitoring parameters as well as the development of additional map types and graphical representations within the web interface.