VOLCANIC

HAZARDS
Volcanic hazards are potential dangers associated
with volcanic activity. Volcanoes are dynamic
geological features capable of producing a variety
of hazardous phenomena that can affect both the
immediate vicinity and areas located at a
considerable distance. The type and magnitude of
volcanic hazards depend on factors such as the
volcano's type, eruption style, and the
characteristics of the surrounding environment.
 LAVA FLOW
• Description: Lava flows are streams of molten rock that move across
the Earth's surface during a volcanic eruption. This molten rock is
called lava when it reaches the Earth's surface. Lava flows can vary
widely in their characteristics, depending on factors such as the type of
magma involved, the volcano's eruptive style, and the topography of
the surrounding area.
 LAVA FLOW
Types of Lava:

Basaltic Lava:
This type of lava is low in viscosity, meaning it flows more easily. Basaltic
lava flows tend to cover large areas and move relatively quickly.
Andesitic and Rhyolitic Lava:
These lavas are more viscous, making them slower-moving and capable of
building up thicker layers. They often form more explosive eruptions.
Hazards:
•Lava flows can pose significant hazards to nearby communities,
infrastructure, and ecosystems. People living in volcanic areas need
to be aware of the potential for lava flows and have evacuation plans
in place.
•The destruction caused by lava flows can include burying
structures, roads, and vegetation.
Pyroclastic Flows

Pyroclastic flows are extremely hazardous and fast-moving

avalanches of hot gas, ash, and volcanic rock fragments that
descend down the sides of a volcano during an explosive
eruption. These flows can travel at high speeds, typically
ranging from 50 to 700 kilometers per hour (30 to 430 miles
per hour), and they can extend for several kilometers from the
erupting vent.
Hazards:
Due to their high speed and destructive nature, pyroclastic
flows are one of the most lethal volcanic hazards. They pose a
severe threat to nearby communities, making early warning
systems and evacuation plans crucial for minimizing
casualties.
Volcanic monitoring techniques, such as seismology, gas
measurements, and satellite observations, are employed to
detect signs of impending volcanic activity, including the
potential for pyroclastic flows. Authorities use this information
to issue warnings and evacuate at-risk areas during volcanic
eruptions.
 ASHFALL
DESCRIPTION:

Ash fall, also known as volcanic ashfall,

occurs when volcanic ash is ejected into the
atmosphere during a volcanic eruption and
IMPACT:
subsequently falls to the ground. Volcanic ash
is composed of fine particles of pulverized
rock and glass created during explosive
eruptions or by the fragmentation of lava
flows. These particles can range in size from
tiny ash particles to larger volcanic rock
fragments
 ASHFALL
IMPACT:

Disruption of transportation, damage to crops,

buildings, and infrastructure, as well as respiratory
issues.

Ash fall killed relatively few, including 300 at Mt.

Pinatubo in 1991.
Ash fall is a common hazard associated with
volcanic eruptions, and its impact can extend
far beyond the immediate vicinity of the
volcano. Preparedness, early warning systems,
and effective communication are essential for
minimizing the risks associated with ash fall
during volcanic events.
 VOLCANIC GASES:

DESCRIPTION:

Release of gases such as sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and

hydrogen sulfide during eruptions.

IMPACT:

Harmful to human health, can cause respiratory

problems and contribute to air pollution.
VOLCANIC DEBRIS AND
TEPHRA
DESCRIPTION:

Ejected fragments of rocks, ash, and other

volcanic material during an eruption.

IMPACT:

Can cause injuries, damage infrastructure, and disrupt

transportation
VOLCANIC LANDSLIDES

DESCRIPTION:

The collapse of volcanic material on the slopes of a volcano, leading

to landslides

IMPACT

Can trigger tsunamis (if the collapse occurs into the

ocean), and can cause destruction in areas downhill
VOLCANIC TSUNAMIS

DESCRIPTION:

Large ocean waves generated by undersea

volcanic activity or landslides into the sea
IMPACT

Coastal flooding, destruction of coastal

communities

Tsunami initiated by eruptions killed about

50,900, 62% of them at Krakatau in 1883.
LAHARS

DESCRIPTION:

Mudflows composed of water, volcanic ash,

and debris that move rapidly downhill.
IMPACT:

Destructive, can bury communities and

infrastructure, and can travel long
distances.

Killed 51,300 at 11 volcanoes in the same