A sequence of parallel to subparallel basalt flows that were formed during a geologically brief interval of time and which covered an extensive geographic area. Thought to have formed from simultaneous or successive fissure eruptions.
Large-scale outpourings of basalt lava producing thick accumulations.
A plateau basalt. Successive flows of high temperature fluid basalt from fissure eruptions merge to form a continuous flat plateau.
An extensive, thick and smooth basaltic lava flow, or successive flows, from fissure eruptions that cover a vast region.
A flood basalt is a giant volcanic eruption that coats large stretches of land or the ocean floor with basalt lava. Flood basalts have occurred on continental scales in prehistory, creating great plateaus and mountain ranges.