Eyjafjallajokull, Iceland - Volcanic Eruption (hazards) Flashcards
Fine grained ash produced from volcano
Ash plume reached 11,000m into the air. This blocked the sun and rescuers had to wear face masks. Homes and roads were damaged, services disrupted and crops destroyed by ash.
Flood occurred
Volcano is covered by a glacier therefore the eruption caused a flood on 14th of April leading to the evacuation of 700 people.
Lava
Lava emitted from a 500m long fissure, spewed 1000 degrees Celsius lava 150m into the air. Volcano classified with a VEI of 4 - greater than 100million cubic metres of lava erupted.
Why has the global vulnerability to the impact of this kind of eruption increased?
Due to the increases in technology and the interconnectedness of the globe due to aviation.
Why was the vulnerability arguably small?
Due to technology monitoring, preparedness of communities in Iceland due to level of development
Which sectors were most vulnerable?
Elderly and young because they are most susceptible to not being able to evacuate quickly and are more health risked
How would frequency of eruption and community preparedness affect vulnerability?
Eruptions are less frequent but the community is well prepared. Evacuation and safety plans are in place to protect lives.
What are the benefits of living in such a tectonically active area?
Tourism attracted to tectonic hazards, geothermal power, cultural connection
Which organisations monitored the eruption?
Icelandic Meteorological Office, National Emergency Agency, University of Iceland, British Meteorological Office, London Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre
Why were African farmers so vulnerable to the impacts of the eruption?
Due to their reliance on international aviation travel to sell and supply their goods, which are mainly perishable
