Hazardous Earth - Impact of volcanoes

Question 1

What are the primary impacts of volcanoes

Answer 1

1. deaths and injuries
2. destruction of buildings or damage to buildings
3. destruction or damage to roads, railways, bridges, farmlands

Question 2

What are the secondary impacts of volcanoes

Answer 2

1. atmospheric pollution caused by ash
2. mudflows (lahars)
3. landslides or volcanic debris
4. flooding if lava flows block rivers
5. Tsunamis from landslides or collapses caused by the eruption

Question 3

Why is the impact from volcanoes sometimes worse in poorer countries

Answer 3

because richer countries are able to afford better monitoring, prediction, warning and preparation and response systems