Although volcanoes usually form along the edges of interacting tectonic plates, geologic forces can produce volcanoes in the middle of a tectonic plate.

Tension created by movements of Earth's tectonic plates has stretched the surface to its breaking point. The entire Basin and Range region has been pulled apart, fracturing the surface and creating large faults. The lowered pressure decreases the melting point of the hot rocks below, and magma escapes through faults, producing volcanic activity.