The immediate aftermath of a volcanic eruption is a transitional phase, moving from an acute natural disaster to a long-term recovery effort. The cessation of the main eruption does not signify the end of danger, as numerous environmental hazards persist in the air and on the ground. Volcanic ash can travel hundreds of miles, creating a widespread blanket of abrasive, heavy material that poses a threat to both health and property. Gases and structural damage also present ongoing risks, meaning the recovery process requires a deliberate, step-by-step approach to ensure safety. This article provides practical guidance for navigating the post-eruption environment.
Prioritizing Immediate Safety and Health Protection
Personal well-being must be the first concern, as acute hazards remain present. Monitor official emergency broadcasts to understand the current situation, including air quality reports and unsafe zones. Follow directives from local authorities, such as shelter-in-place orders, before attempting any cleanup. Staying indoors and keeping windows and doors sealed protects against inhaling ash and volcanic gases.
When movement outside is required, respiratory protection is necessary due to the fine, crystalline nature of volcanic ash. A NIOSH-approved N95 respirator is recommended for filtering out these small, harmful particles. If an N95 mask is unavailable, a wet cloth or a nuisance dust mask offers only minimal, temporary protection. Particulate-filtering masks do not trap toxic volcanic gases (such as sulfur dioxide or hydrogen fluoride). If you detect a strong, irritating odor, immediately move upwind and away from the area.
Eye protection is equally important, as volcanic ash is abrasive and can scratch the cornea. Wear tight-fitting goggles without side vents to shield the eyes from airborne ash particles during cleanup. Individuals who wear contact lenses should switch to corrective eyeglasses to prevent irritation. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants minimizes physical contact with ash, which can irritate the skin.
Practical Steps for Ash Cleanup and Property Protection
The physical removal of volcanic ash is a demanding task requiring careful technique to prevent injury and property damage. Ash accumulation on roofs presents a substantial structural risk because the material is dense and becomes significantly heavier when wet. For instance, four inches (10 cm) of saturated ash can add enough weight to cause a roof to collapse. Therefore, clearing the roof must be done promptly and with caution, using a broom or shovel to push the ash off.
Working on an ash-covered roof is hazardous because the surface is extremely slippery, increasing the risk of falls. Use crawl boards or secured ladders for stability and to distribute weight evenly. When clearing ash, use dry methods first. Lightly dampening the ash with a fine mist can reduce its tendency to become airborne, but using too much water risks cementing the ash into a heavy, difficult-to-remove material.
Ash must be kept out of wastewater and storm drainage systems, as it will quickly clog pipes and create blockages. Clear gutters and downspouts using a trowel or scoop, but do not flush the collected ash down the drains. Collect the material in heavy-duty plastic bags or designated containers for proper community disposal.
The protection of vehicles and machinery requires isolating them from the abrasive environment. Air intake systems on cars and heavy equipment should be sealed or covered until the area is cleared, and air filters must be checked and replaced frequently. Indoors, maintain air quality by keeping windows and doors sealed and turning off heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to prevent ash from being drawn inside. When cleaning interior surfaces, a vacuum equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter is the best tool for removing fine ash particles.
Re-establishing Essential Services and Infrastructure
Before fully reoccupying a home or building, inspect all utility connections and structural integrity.
Water Supply
The water supply is a primary concern, as volcanic ash can introduce contaminants and clog filters in municipal systems. If the public water supply is compromised or ash is visible in the water, use only bottled water for drinking and cooking. Continue using bottled water until the supply has been tested and declared safe by local health officials.
Gas and Electric Lines
Gas and electric lines must be inspected for damage from ground shaking or ash fall. If you detect the smell of rotten eggs, a faint hissing sound, or see visible damage to gas lines, immediately evacuate the area and contact the utility company. If the gas supply is turned off at the main valve, only a qualified utility professional is permitted to restore service. Assume all downed power lines are live, stay well away, and report them to the power company immediately.
Structural Integrity and Sewage
Structural assessment should focus on the roof structure, especially following heavy ash removal. Check for any sagging or cracks in the ceiling that could indicate structural fatigue or failure points. Also, inspect all septic and sewage systems for blockages. Fine ash particles can easily consolidate and obstruct the flow in pipes, leading to backups.