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On November 2, 2010, Mount Merapi in Central Java, Indonesia erupted while spectators captured the event on camera. The image is credited to WF Sihardian/EyeEm/Getty Images.A recent study, published in the Journal of Applied Volcanology, sheds light on the likelihood of dying from a volcanic eruption and the most probable scenarios in which this could occur.
Over 800 million people around the world reside within the risk zone of an active volcano, with 10% of the global population living within 62 miles (100 kilometers) of potential danger. Although not a certainty, living close to an active volcano poses significant risks. The study reports that since 1500, around 278,000 individuals have perished due to volcanic activity, averaging 540 deaths annually over the last 517 years.
A memorial was established in honor of those who perished in the eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980, marking the 20th anniversary of the disaster.
Image Credit: Dan Callister/Online USA/Getty ImagesThe research team from the University of Bristol's School of Earth Sciences has updated, refined, and expanded previous volcanic fatality databases, including additional data regarding the proximity of individuals to the volcano at the time of their death. The study identifies several types of volcanic hazards, which can cause fatalities both during active eruptions and in periods of volcanic dormancy.
These volcanic hazards range from being caught in the immediate vicinity of an eruption, where most fatalities occur within 3 miles (5 kilometers), to falling victim to volcanic gases escaping from the earth, or succumbing to volcanic lahars, tsunamis, and tephra (volcanic mudflows, massive sea waves, and ejected material, respectively) up to 9 miles (15 kilometers) or more from the volcano.
While most fatalities occur in residential areas within 6 miles (10 kilometers) of the volcano, deaths have also occurred from as far as 105 miles (170 kilometers) away. Those closest to the eruption are typically killed by pyroclastic density currents—avalanches of molten rock, ash, and deadly gases. Though less frequent, fatalities also occur further away from the eruption site. In total, volcanoes have claimed the lives of 561 tourists, 108 miners, 67 scientists, 57 emergency responders, and 30 media personnel.
"Identifying these distinct groups of victims is crucial to enhancing safety measures and reducing fatalities and injuries among these populations," explained lead author and volcanologist Sarah Brown of the University of Bristol's School of Earth Sciences, as noted in a press release.
"While volcanologists and emergency responders may have valid reasons for entering hazardous areas, it's crucial to carefully balance the benefits and risks," she stated. "The media and tourists must adhere to exclusion zones and follow guidance from authorities and volcano observatories. Tourist fatalities can be minimized through proper access restrictions, warnings, and public education."
There are currently 1,508 active volcanoes identified worldwide. Whether you live near one or not—or if your plans to roast S'mores over a lava flow unexpectedly go awry—the key takeaway is to exercise caution in volcanic regions!
A series of lava fountains arranged in a straight line at Pauahi Crater on Hawaii's Kilauea volcano, while three geologists collect scientific data.
Image Credit: Corbis/Getty ImagesIf you were to fall into a volcano, you'd actually land on top of the molten lava rather than sinking straight into it. This is because the lava is three times denser than water—roughly as thick as peanut butter or Nutella.
