Volcano Hazards Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is indicated by the glow of a volcanic crater?

Activity of magma (correct)

Increase in freshwater sources

Presence of solid rock

Reduction in steam emission

What should NOT be included in your emergency supply kit when preparing for a volcanic eruption?

Heavy furniture (correct)

First-aid kit

Clean clothes

Battery-operated radio

Which color represents an active volcano on monitoring maps?

Yellow

Green

Orange (correct)

Red

What is a common precaution to take if instructed to stay indoors during a volcanic event?

Cover windows with a damp cloth Signup and view all the answers

Landslides and rockfalls around a volcano can occur due to what?

Volcanic activity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a potentially active volcano?

Regular eruptions within the last 600 years Signup and view all the answers

How should livestock be secured before a volcanic eruption?

In enclosed shelters Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if local authorities issue an evacuation order?

Evacuate immediately and follow the family emergency plan Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between lava flows and pyroclastic flows?

Lava flows are denser and move more slowly than pyroclastic flows. Signup and view all the answers

What are lahars?

Mixtures of water, pyroclastic materials, and rock fragments flowing down a slope. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a sign of an impending volcanic eruption?

Decreasing amount of volcanic gases. Signup and view all the answers

What type of volcanic hazard is primarily composed of sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide?

Volcanic gases Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes tephra from other volcanic materials?

It is composed of solid rock fragments ejected into the air. Signup and view all the answers

Which volcanic hazard is characterized by a fast-moving mass of rock fragments and gases?

Pyroclastic flow Signup and view all the answers

What appropriate intervention should be taken during a volcanic eruption?

Evacuate the area and seek higher ground. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of the pressure build-up that leads to a volcanic eruption?

Accumulation of volcanic gases. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

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.

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Description

Explore the various hazards associated with volcanoes in this quiz. Learn about lava flows, ash fall, lahars, and other volatile phenomena that can threaten life and property. Understand the unique characteristics and risks each type of hazard presents.