The Hazards of Volcanic Eruptions

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The relevance of time and location can play a huge role towards the levels of hazards and consequences that occur when related to a volcanic eruption. Within this essay I will consider all contributory factors that may influence the processes which take place. Contrasting several volcanoes with specific differences, in both LEDC’s and MEDC’s will give a vivid and overall representation of the variation involved in volcanic processes.

A hazard can best be defined as a 'situation that poses a level of threat to life, health, property or the environment.' The overall impact of volcanoes as a natural hazard varies greatly from one place and timeframe to another. As do the types of hazards, which are categorised into primary and secondary. Primary hazards, created by the direct eruptive energy of the volcano could include pyroclastic flow, ash clouds and large volcanic bombs. These primary hazards can in turn trigger secondary hazards such as floods, fires, disease and destabilisation of infrastructure.

Another factor that could suggest the seriousness of the hazard is the differentiation between the volcanic landforms involved. These reflect the nature of the material involved, the nature of the eruption and the time that has elapsed since the last activity. Perhaps the eruption was basaltic, this originating largely from the upward movement of mantle material. They are most common along spreading ridges but are also found at hot spots and within more developed rift systems. These types of volcanic eruptions are of a basic level. The lava here wouldn’t be at the top end of the risk scale as it spreads slowly and smoothly as the liquid is of a runny form. However, if the eruption was classed as andesitic it would be marginal...

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...ye on the volcano for twenty years with a well known network of remote sensors, radio and phones to the centre in Catania. Communication in this area is vital and is their main ingredients to decrease deaths, disease and destruction.

In conclusion, I believe that the preparation and awareness of what is about to happen, with regards to a volcanic eruption, is the key to a less unfortunate event. Monitoring systems and predictions are vital in order to limit the amount of deaths and infrastructure of buildings as well as the land. Usually this will only apply to MEDC’s and using my own knowledge and research in which I have hi-lighted in my chosen case studies. However, volcanic processes will affect people continuously around the world. Wealth and organisation will lower the representation of hazards which is typical in more economically developed countries.

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