Volcanic eruptions are powerful, often unpredictable natural events that rapidly release immense energy and hazardous materials. These events are not limited to the immediate vicinity of the vent, as ash plumes and gas clouds can travel hundreds of miles, affecting vast populations. Preparing for and knowing how to react during an eruption is essential to safeguard life and minimize harm. This guide outlines practical steps to take for your safety when an eruption is imminent or underway.
Preparing an Emergency Plan
A comprehensive emergency plan must be established well before any signs of volcanic unrest appear. Create a detailed communication strategy, including designated out-of-area contacts and an established meeting place should your family become separated during an evacuation. Since phone lines can become overwhelmed during a disaster, utilizing text messages or social media for brief status updates should be the primary method of contact.
Assemble a robust emergency supply kit, often called a “Go-Kit,” containing enough nonperishable food, water, and medicine for a minimum of three days. This kit should specifically include respiratory protection, such as NIOSH-approved N95 respirators, and eye protection like goggles to guard against abrasive ash. Understand your community’s warning systems, which may include sirens, reverse 911 calls, or the federal Volcano Notification Service (VNS), to ensure you receive timely alerts. Consult with local emergency management to understand the specific volcanic hazards in your area and to review pre-determined evacuation routes and shelter locations.
Responding to Evacuation Orders
When a formal evacuation order is issued by local authorities, immediate action is required, as this is the most effective safety measure. Officials have the most current data on the volcano’s activity and the anticipated path of hazards, making their guidance paramount. Follow only the designated evacuation routes, as these have been planned to avoid areas at risk from fast-moving hazards like pyroclastic flows and lahars (volcanic mudflows).
Before leaving, secure your home to protect it from ash intrusion and potential secondary damage. This involves turning off utilities, especially the gas line, if time allows, and closing all windows and doors tightly. Evacuate early to avoid traffic congestion that could trap you in a high-risk zone. If movement is impossible, shelter in place by moving to an interior room and sealing all gaps around doors and windows with damp towels or tape to minimize ash entry.
Protecting Against Volcanic Hazards
During the active phase of an eruption, immediate physical protection against airborne material and flows is the central focus. Volcanic ash is composed of pulverized rock and glass, making it highly abrasive and a severe respiratory irritant. If you must be outside, wear a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator to filter the fine particles, or use a damp cloth over your nose and mouth as a last resort.
Wear goggles to protect your eyes, and avoid contact lenses entirely, as ash trapped underneath can cause corneal abrasion. Remain indoors with all windows and doors closed, and turn off all air conditioning or heating systems that draw outside air into the building. If you live near a river valley, be aware that melting snow or intense rainfall can quickly mix with ash and debris to form a lahar, requiring you to move immediately to high ground.
Avoid driving in heavy ashfall because the fine, abrasive particles can clog your engine’s air filter and stall the vehicle. Bring pets and livestock into closed shelters to prevent them from inhaling ash or ingesting it. Cover vehicles and sensitive machinery with tarpaulins or move them into a garage to prevent mechanical damage from the ash.
Safety Measures After an Eruption
Once the eruption has subsided, lingering hazards require continued vigilance until authorities issue an official “all clear.” Volcanic ash is extremely heavy, and a significant accumulation on a roof can lead to structural collapse, so you must clear it safely and promptly. Be cautious when working on the roof, as ash makes surfaces slippery.
Before sweeping or shoveling, slightly wet the ash to prevent it from becoming airborne. Avoid dumping large quantities into storm drains, as this can cause widespread clogging. Check your water supply for contamination, as ash can affect surface water sources. If your water has visible ash, use bottled water until the supply can be tested by local health officials. Avoid damaged infrastructure, report broken utility lines to the proper authorities, and do not make non-emergency phone calls, as communication networks remain overburdened.