A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust that allows molten rock, gases, and debris to escape to the surface. Alaska, Hawaii, California, and Oregon have the most active volcanoes, but other states and territories have active volcanoes, too. A volcanic eruption may involve lava and other debris that can flow up to 100 mph, destroying everything in their path. Volcanic ash can travel hundreds of miles and cause severe health problems.
A volcanic eruption can:
- Contaminate water supplies.
- Damage machinery.
- Reduce visibility through smog and harmful gases that may threaten low-lying areas.
- Make it hard to breathe and irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and throat.
If you are under a Volcano Warning:
- Listen for emergency information and alerts.
- Follow evacuation or shelter orders. If advised to evacuate, then do so early.
- Avoid areas downstream of the eruption.
- Protect yourself from falling ash.
- Do not drive in heavy ash fall.
Learn more at https://www.ready.gov/volcanoes.