Volcanoes are manifestations of the fiery power contained deep within the Earth. These formations are essentially vents on the Earth's surface where molten rock, debris, and gases from the planet's interior are emitted. LATEST NEWS Lava began flowing from the Mayon volcano in the Philippines January 15, and thousands have evacuated the area. A "hazardous eruption is possible within weeks or even days," a bulletin from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) warned. Mayon has erupted many times over the past few centuries, and sometimes has been deadly—more than 70 were killed in a 1993 eruption, and an entire town was destroyed in 1814. HOW VOLCANOES ARE MADE When thick magma and large amounts of gas build up under the surface, eruptions can be explosive, expelling lava, rocks and ash into the air. Less gas and more viscous magma usually mean a less dramatic eruption, often causing streams of lava to ooze from the vent. The mountain-like mounds that we associate with volcanoes are what remain after the material spewed during eruptions has collected and hardened around the vent. This can happen over a period of weeks or many millions of years. A large eruption can be dangerous for people living near a volcano. Flows of searing lava, which can reach 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit (1,250 degrees Celsius) or more, can be released, burning everything in their path. Boulders of hardening lava can rain down on villages. Mud flows from rapidly melting snow can strip mountains and valleys bare and bury towns. Ash and toxic gases can cause lung damage and other problems, particularly for infants and the elderly. Scientists estimate that more than 260,000 people have died in the past 300 years from volcanic eruptions and their aftermath. WHERE ARE EARTH'S VOLCANOES? Volcanoes tend to exist along the edges between tectonic plates, massive rock slabs that make up Earth's surface. About 90 percent of all volcanoes exist within the Ring of Fire along the edges of the Pacific Ocean. About 1,900 volcanoes on Earth are considered active, meaning they show some level of activity and are likely to explode again. Many other volcanoes are dormant, showing no current signs of exploding but likely to become active at some point in the future. Others are considered extinct. Volcano Safety Tips A volcanic eruption can be an awesome and destructive event. Here are some tips on how to avoid danger and what to do if you're caught near an eruption. SAFETY TIPS• As much as possible, stay away from active volcanoes. • If you live near an active volcano, keep goggles and a mask in an emergency kit, along with a flashlight and a working, battery-operated radio. • Know your evacuation route. Keep gas in your car. IF A VOLCANO ERUPTS IN YOUR AREA• Evacuate only as recommended by authorities to stay clear of lava, mud flows, and flying rocks and debris. • Avoid river areas and low-lying regions. • Before you leave the house, change into long-sleeved shirts and long pants and use goggles or eyeglasses, not contacts. Wear an emergency mask or hold a damp cloth over your face. • If you are not evacuating, close windows and doors and block chimneys and other vents, to prevent ash from coming into the house. • Be aware that ash may put excess weight on your roof and need to be swept away. Wear protection during cleanups. • Ash can damage engines and metal parts, so avoid driving. If you must drive, stay below 35 miles (56 kilometers) an hour. Comments are closed.
|
Erik E. Mason
|