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Knowing how lava effusion rates vary during basaltic eruptions can be of great significance when trying to provide preliminary forecasts regarding how far lava will flow. However, problems exist in accurately determining effusion rates using conventional field-based techniques. To ameliorate this problem Harris et al. [J. Geophys. Res. 102 (1997), 7985–8003; Bull. Volcanol. 59 (1997), 49–64; J. Volcanol. Geotherm. Res. 102 (2000), 237–269] developed a method for determining effusion rates using infrared satellite data, and showed how the method could be used to provide realistic estimates of effusion rates, repeatedly during several eruptions at Kilauea (Hawai’i) Krafla (Iceland), Etna and Stromboli (Italy). Harris et al. [J. Geophys. Res. 102 (1997), 7985–8003; Bull. Volcanol. 59 (1997), 49–64] indicate that their method allows instantaneous lava effusion rates to be determined thermodynamically by equating the …