Module 5 - Volcano Hazards.pdf

Explain various volcano related hazards. Differentiate among different volcano hazards. Recognize and identify signs of an impending volcanic eruption. Explain and interpret different volcano hazard maps. Appropriate measures/ interventions before, during and after a volcanic eruption. Volcanoe...

Explain various volcano related hazards. Differentiate among different volcano hazards. Recognize and identify signs of an impending volcanic eruption. Explain and interpret different volcano hazard maps. Appropriate measures/ interventions before, during and after a volcanic eruption. Volcanoes are openings in the Earth’s crust that allows the energy from the interior of Earth to escape to the surface. Most volcanoes are found on the edges of plates where one plate connects to another. Most of the islands in the Philippines are volcanic in origin. When a volcano erupts, magma, ash, and gases are forcefully expelled from a volcano's vent due to pressure build-up beneath the Earth's surface. This can result in various volcanic hazards, impacting the surrounding environment and communities. Volcanic hazards are volcano-related phenomena that pose potential threat or negate impact to life, property, and the environment in a given period of time. The following are some potential volcano-related hazards: This is molten rock that pours down from the slopes of the volcano. It is different from pyroclastic flow in that the lava flow is denser and hence it moves more slowly. This is composed of bits and pieces of pulverized rock, minerals, and volcanic glass generated from the volcanic eruption. It is usually spewed from explosive eruptions when glass in magma expand and go out violently to the atmosphere. This is an Indonesian term for the mixture of water, pyroclastic materials, and rock fragments flowing down volcano or river valley. When it flows from a volcano, it is highly destructive to anything in its path. This refers to the fast-moving fluidized mass of rock fragments and gases that races down the slopes of a volcano during an eruption, because of the high speeds it can causing a significant damage. This is a rock fragment that is ejected from a volcano during its explosive eruption. It is like a cannonball that travels fast in the air. This consists of sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, which are poisonous and hazardous to organisms. These are the main constituents of the magma that is spewed out during an eruption. 1. Occurrence of tremors or increase in the frequency of small earthquakes. 2. Deformation in the ground manifested by changes in ground elevation (tilting) and formation of cracks or openings (ground fissuring). 3. Increase in the amount of volcanic gases and in temperature, which may indicate that the magma has gone closer to the surface. 4. Glow of volcanic crater due to the presence of magma. 5. Increase in steam emission coming from volcanic openings, fissures, or hot springs. 6. Thermal changes within the surroundings of the volcano. 7. Change in the color of nearby vegetation and lakes. 8. Landslides and rockfall not due to heavy rains. 9. Drying up of springs and freshwater sources around the volcano. Active volcanoes, marked with orange triangles, have erupted within the past 600 years and are closely monitored for immediate threats. Potentially active volcanoes, shown with yellow triangles, are classified by experts as having no current eruption signs but a high likelihood of future seismic activity. Inactive volcanoes, represented by green circles, have no eruption records and are considered extinct or dormant. How can people prepare for the danger that volcanoes bring? Below are some precautionary measures that people can do before, during, and after a volcanic eruption. 1. Stay updated with the local news. 2. Learn about your community warning systems and emergency plans. Have a meeting with all family members and make a family emergency preparedness plan. Make sure that each member is well informed of your plan and he or she knows where the emergency supply kit is. 3. Prepare an emergency supply kit that should include the following: first- aid kit, clean clothes, food and water, flashlight with extra batteries, battery-operated radio, prescribed medicines, dust masks, goggles, and sturdy shoes. 4. Pack all important and essential items in light and waterproof containers. 5. Secure livestock in enclosed shelters. 6. Listen to public safety announcements of local authorities. Follow the authorities instructions if they tell you to evacuate the area. 1. Follow evacuation orders issued by local authorities and remind family members of your disaster plan. Stay in the evacuation center until further instructions are given by authorities. 2. lf told to stay indoors, place a damp cloth over your windows and, if possible, over your doors. Make sure all windows, doors, and other vents are kept closed to prevent entry of ash and other materials spewed out by the volcano. 3. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. 4. Use goggles to protect your eyes. 5. Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to prevent inhalation of ashes and other volcanic particles. This will also help you breathe easier. 7. Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest emergency information. 6. Avoid low-lying regions and river areas near the volcano. Volcanic debris and ash will be carried by the wind and gravity. 1. Wait for the announcement from local authorities that it is safe to return to your house. 2. Inspect your house carefully for any damage before you enter it. Do not enter your house if you smell gas, lahar is present, or authorities have declared it unsafe. 3. If you or a family member has a respiratory ailment such as asthma or bronchitis, stay away from volcanic ashfall areas. Volcanic ash can cause severe damage to the respiratory system as well as irritation to the skin and the eyes. 4. Wear a dust mask, gloves, and goggles while cleaning the debris and ashfall on the roof of your house to avoid further damage. 5. Check electrical wirings, appliances, and gas tanks before using them. 6. Boil water before drinking it. Groundwater pipes may have been contaminated by volcanic particles. 7. Stay informed and listen for emergency updates and news.