Volcanic Hazards
Volcanic hazards are dangerous events that can occur when a volcano erupts. These hazards include lava flows, which can destroy everything in their path, and pyroclastic flows, which are fast-moving currents of hot gas and volcanic matter that can be deadly. Other hazards include ashfall, which can affect air quality and damage buildings, and lahars, or volcanic mudflows, that can occur when volcanic material mixes with water.
In addition to these physical dangers, volcanic eruptions can also lead to volcanic gases being released into the atmosphere, which can pose health risks. Communities near active volcanoes must be prepared for these hazards through monitoring and emergency plans to ensure safety during an eruption.