A volcanic eruption occurs when there is a sudden release of magma, gas, and ash from a volcano. This happens when pressure builds up inside the Earth, causing the magma to rise through cracks in the Earth's crust. Eruptions can vary in intensity, from gentle lava flows to explosive blasts that send ash high into the atmosphere. During an eruption, materials like lava, ash, and volcanic gases are expelled. These materials can impact the surrounding environment, affecting air quality and climate. Some eruptions can create new landforms, such as volcanic islands or calderas, while others can pose significant risks to nearby communities.