Volcanic eruptions

Quick overview

A few facts on volcanic eruptions

Though most volcanoes are dormant, there are currently more than 1 500 potentially active volcanoes on earth. Among these, some of the most visited are in Italy (Etna, Vulcano, Stromboli), in Indonesia (Mt Bromo, Merapi, Krakatoa, Gede, Papandayan, Semeru and Kawah Ijen), in Japan (Mt Fuji, Sakurajima and Unzen), in Hawaii (Kilauea and Mauna Loa) and in Tanzania (Mt Kilimanjaro, Oldoinyo Lengai and Meru).

Volcanic activity can occur in different ways, from lava flows to violent explosions, which can result in the release of ash, rocks or poisonous gas over hundreds of feet. Volcanic eruptions often take place at the same time as other natural disasters such as earthquakes, rock falls and landslides, mud and flash floods, acid rain, fire and even tsunamis. Therefore if you are planning a holiday in a volcanic area, you must consider yourself at risk.

Preventive measures

If you are visiting a particularly active volcanic area, inform yourself about local authorities' alert signals and official instructions, and be ready to leave your accommodation at any time. It is also recommended to take a pair of goggles and a breathing mask with you.

How to react?

During the eruption

First of all, try to remain calm, monitor local media and get ready to leave the premises in case you receive an evacuation order.

If you do not need to evacuate or you cannot, take refuge inside the building and cover your head. Try to avoid areas that are down wind and valleys located below the volcano. Switch off the air conditioning and all other aeration systems (fans, chimney...). Wear long-sleeves and long pants, goggles and a mask to protect yourself from volcanic ash (if you do not have a mask, use a scarf instead). Ash can be very irritating for the skin and airways. Keep away from mudflows; look carefully upstream before crossing a valley or a bridge. If possible, do not drive through ash, but if you have to, keep your speed under 35 mph (55 km per hour).

After the eruption

Monitor the progress of the situation on local media, follow any instructions given, and assist any person that may have been hurt during the eruption.

Check to make sure there are no gas leaks. If you notice the smell of gas, open the windows, and leave the premises. If possible, cut the gas tap and call special services. Check electrical installations. If you notice spark, stripped wires or a burnt smell, turn off electricity and call special services. Check that there are no damages to water or sewage pipes. If you suspect damage, do not use the bathrooms or tap water and call a plumber. Clean the roof of the building, as it may collapse under the weight of the ash.