PERFORMANCE TASK 1 BEFORE, DURING , AFTER A VOLCANIC ERUPTION Awareness about volcanic hazards Presented/created by: Cryzhiane Nicole R. Caliso 9-Hydrogen
WHAT HAPPENS BEFORE A VOLCANIC ERUPTION? Most volcanoes issue warnings prior to an eruption. Magmatic eruptions are caused by magma rising to the surface, which usually results in detectable earthquakes. It can also deform the ground surface, resulting in abnormal heat flow or changes in the temperature and chemistry of groundwater and spring water. However, as superheated water flashes to steam, steam-blast eruptions can occur with little or no warning. Examples of notable precursors to an eruption include: An increase in the number and magnitude of felt earthquakes Noticeable steaming or fumarolic activity, as well as new or expanded hot ground areas The ground surface has swelled slightly. Small variations in heat flow Changes in the composition of fumarolic gases or their relative abundances
WVHOLACTAHNAIPCPEERNUSPDTUIORNING A According to the USGS, the explosivity of a volcano is determined by the composition of the magma. Runnier magma allows gas to escape more easily, causing the magma to flow outward. Because lava flows move slowly, they rarely result in fatalities. When the magma is thicker, however, it can cause more of an explosion. Thick magma is especially dangerous because it can cause house-sized boulders to erupt into the air. In any case, if an eruption is predicted, you should be evacuating. Because explosive magma can destroy anything in its path, including animals, plants, and sometimes humans, these highly explosive volcanoes can be deadly. However, if the hot magma mixes with fresh water or runoff from snow or ice, it can cause another natural disaster known as a mudflow, also known as a lahar, according to Class Zone. These are also potentially lethal, and have suffocated entire towns and cities in the past with natural earth materials and debris. What should you do during a volcanic eruption : Close all windows and doors if you are inside. If you are outside, seek shelter. Stay away from low-lying areas. Dress in long-sleeved shirts and long pants. To protect your eyes, wear goggles. Wear dust masks. Stay away from volcanoes.
AFTER A VOLCANIC ERUPTION In some cases, volcanic eruptions can be disastrous. To keep people safe, the immediate area is usually evacuated quickly. Extremely hot lava can also do a lot of damage, destroying towns and farmland. Volcanic ash can also cause breathing problems and cause travel disruptions because it reduces visibility for pilots. Although it may seem counterintuitive, a volcanic eruption can sometimes benefit its surroundings. For example, the ash and lava (if not too thick) can break down to create extremely fertile farmland, making the surrounding areas suitable for crop cultivation. The heat produced by volcanic eruptions can be used to generate electricity because heat produces steam when it comes into contact with water, which can then be used to power turbines. What to do after a volcanic eruption : Listen to local radio stations for civil defense information and instructions. Stay as far away from volcanic ashfall areas as possible. When it is safe to go outside, keep your gutters and roof clear of ash because heavy ash deposits can cause your roof to collapse. Do not use your dishwasher or washing machine if there is a lot of ash in the water supply. Driving in heavy ashfall is not recommended because it stirs up ash, which can clog engines and cause serious abrasion damage to your vehicle. Keep animals indoors whenever possible, wash ash off their paws or skin to prevent them from ingesting it, and provide clean drinking water.
VOLCANOES Maintain your composure and awareness. Presented/created by: Cryzhiane Nicole R. Caliso 9-Hydrogen
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