Among the most powerful and destructive natural disasters, volcanic eruptions are catastrophic. They can build and destroy mountains. They can wipe out many villages and towns in a matter of moments. They can even cause global changes in the Earth's climate.
In 1883, the famous Krakatoa eruption send more than 25 cubic kilometers of ash, rock, and pumice into the environment. Heard as far away as 2000 miles, it made the loudest sound ever reported. After it was over, over 165 towns and over 36,000 people were destroyed. In the year after the eruption, the world's temperature dropped over one degree Celsius, and normal temperatures did not return for another six years.
Scientists, who study volcanoes are called vulcanologist, are learning how to predict the likelihood and severity of eruptions. But they're a long way from being able to tell us when a volcano will blow its top. While there may be some general signs, like tremors or unusual animal behavior, it is important to understand some basic about the event so that you can prepare to response in an emergency to a volcanic event.
1. Become familiar with the terms scientists use to describe volcanoes and volcanic eruptions. That way, you can better understand news reports and information.
Volcanic ash is small dust particles and pieces of rock that are erupted into the air with volcanic gases. These ashes are highly acidic and can decompose fabrics, corrode metals, clog machinery, and block water flows. Volcanic ash kills animals and plants. On roofs, it can build up to weights that will cause the building to collapse. Mixed with water, volcanic ask is like cement. It hardens quickly, making breathing deadly.
Pyroclastic flows are streams of molten volcanic rock, called lava. The speed at which they move depends on the terrain and the composition of the lava. Some pyroclastic flows move very quickly, engulfing everything in their path.
2. Learn the most likely places in your area for pyroclastic flows. Since they are semi-liquid, they'll probably follow low-lying areas like riverbeds and floodplains.
3. If a nearby volcano shows signs of erupting, stay away from it. The eruption could happen in the blink of an eye. If you're too close, you won't be able to escape.
4. If the government asks you to evacuate, do it immediately. Remember Pompeii. Even if your community isn't flooded by pyroclastic flows, it could be buried in ash. The only way to protect yourself is to get out of the area. While you might find some protection in buildings, they can also become death traps.
5. Avoid crossing bridges that could be swept away in a fast-moving mudflow. If you must use a bridge to escape, try to find out what's happening upstream so that you aren't caught unawares in an oncoming river of mud.
6. If the volcano is releasing volcanic ask, stay inside and leave your doors and windows closed. Wear a mask to protect your lungs.
7. When it is safe to do so, immediately remove volcanic ask from your rain gutters and roof. Volcanic ask is very heavy and can collapse buildings. As noted before, it can also become like concrete if it gets wet and permanently clog your pipes, drains, and gutters.
diseases, especially to infants and old people with lung problems.
8. If you must drive, avoid places that already have a thick layer of ash or dust. And drive slowly to avoid getting caught in mudslides or pyroclastic flows.
9. Be prepared to provide your own necessities to carry you through several days of primitive living. Take spare batteries, heavy-duty dust masks, protective clothing, fresh drinking water, and enough food to keep your energy level up.
If you are in an area near an active volcano, you owe it to yourself to understand how volcanoes behave and the threats they present. Know what to do to preserve your life and protect your property. And if there are any signs of impending eruption, listen to the radio for updates and important life-saving information.
Volcanoes are one of nature's most powerful forces, and much of their damage can't be prevented. Even after the eruption has passed, the event isn't over. There'll be massive clean-up, slow reconstruction, and lingering environmental and health problems. However, the better informed and prepared you are for such a terrible event, the more likely you will be to survive and remain healthy.
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