6.Volcanic Hazards Mt Nyriagongo

Question 1

Overview

Answer 1

Democratic Republic of Congo and occurred in 2002, has erupted 34 times since 1882
Is responsible for 40% of Africa’s recorded volcanic eruptions
Constructive plate boundaries
Recorded as 1 on scale

Question 2

Primary impacts

Answer 2

Sulphurous lava entered Lake Kivu and poisoned water
Lava destroyed town of Goma which has over 200,000 inhabitants
Commercial centre of town destroyed along with water and power supply facilities
Lava covered northern third of runway at Goma airport
Death toll reached 147
Structural damage to buildings accompanied with earthquakes

Question 3

Secondary impacts

Answer 3

Minor volcanic activity continued, several children and animals died after inhaling co2
Thousands required medical attention from the effects of smoke and fumes from the lava which caused eye irritation and respiratory problems
Looting occurred- many were killed when a petrol station exploded
Cost $15 million to provide aid

Question 4

Risk management (prep and prevention)

Answer 4

Issued ‘red alert’ for Goma and surrounding area which enabled a full evacuation to take place
Prompt response kept death rates relatively low
Eruption seismographs were donated to scientists in the area so they could see seismic activity and prepare

Question 5

Mitigation and adaptation

Answer 5

Mitigation- advised infrastructure near volcano not to be rebuilt
Volcano is regularly being analysed

Adaptation- scientists investigated mount after eruption and put in place 3 seismic measuring devices

Question 6

Perception of eruption

Answer 6

Many residents had attitudes of fear and didn’t even know what the eruption was
CHANGES
Ignorant of the fact it could erupt again, returning to Goma even if their children are exposed to the harmful gases