Volcano Hazards Overview

Volcano-Related Hazards

• Volcanoes are openings in the Earth’s crust allowing magma, ash, and gases to escape due to pressure build-up.
• Hazards include lava flows, ash fall, pyroclastic flows, lahars, and volcanic gases, each posing unique threats to life, property, and the environment.

Types of Volcano Hazards

• Lava Flow: Molten rock flowing from a volcano; denser and moves slower than pyroclastic flow.
• Ash Fall: Pulverized rock and glass ejected explosively, can blanket surrounding areas disrupting air quality and causing structural damage.
• Lahar: Mixture of water and volcanic materials flowing rapidly down slopes, highly destructive to infrastructure and landscapes.
• Pyroclastic Flow: Fast-moving mixture of gases and rock fragments; can cause extensive destruction due to high speeds.
• Tephra: Solid fragments ejected during eruptions, capable of causing injuries and damaging properties.
• Volcanic Gases: Emissions like sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide are toxic and hazardous to health.

Signs of an Impending Eruption

• Increased frequency of small earthquakes and tremors may indicate rising magma.
• Ground deformation, such as tilting or cracks, suggests significant geological activity.
• Elevated volcanic gas emissions and temperatures may signal magma approaching the surface.
• Visible glow from a volcanic crater due to magma presence.
• Increased steam from fissures or hot springs.
• Thermal changes in the environment surrounding the volcano.
• Alterations in vegetation color and local water bodies.
• Occurrence of landslides unrelated to rainfall.
• Drying of local freshwater sources.

Understanding Volcano Hazard Maps

• Active Volcanoes: Marked with orange triangles, have erupted in the last 600 years and are actively monitored.
• Potentially Active Volcanoes: Denoted by yellow triangles, no current eruptions but may have a high likelihood of future activity.
• Inactive Volcanoes: Represented by green circles, these have no historical eruptions and are considered dormant or extinct.

Emergency Preparedness Measures

• Stay informed through local news and community warning systems regarding volcanic activity.
• Create a comprehensive emergency plan with family members, including designated meeting points.
• Prepare an emergency supply kit with essentials: first-aid supplies, food, water, flashlight, radio, medicines, masks, goggles, and sturdy clothing.
• Keep important items in waterproof containers for protection.
• Secure livestock in shelters prior to any eruption possibility.

During a Volcanic Eruption

• Follow evacuation orders and remain in designated shelters until further notice.
• If instructed to stay indoors, use damp cloths on windows and doors to prevent ash entry.
• Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves and pants, to reduce ash exposure.
• Use goggles and masks to protect against eye and respiratory hazards from volcanic particles.
• Stay updated through battery-operated radios for emergency information.

Post-Eruption Safety

• Monitor local news for updates on hazards and recovery efforts.
• Assess damage carefully and avoid areas deemed unsafe by authorities.
• Engage with community recovery programs and support services as needed.