Volcanic Eruptions
Few people live next to a crater, but ash travels hundreds of kilometres. It closes airports, contaminates water, damages engines and makes breathing difficult. Near the volcano, the dangers are lava, fast flows of hot gas and rock, and mudflows that follow river valleys. Volcanoes are monitored, so in most cases there is time to act if you follow the alerts.
1. Before
- If you live near or travel to a volcanic area, such as Iceland, the Canary Islands or southern Italy, know the alert levels and the evacuation routes.
- Follow the national volcano observatory and civil protection.
- Add to your kit: well-fitting FFP2 or N95 masks, goggles, and plastic sheeting and tape to cover electronics and seal gaps.
- Store water, food and medicines for several days, including for pets. Ash can contaminate open water supplies. See Home kit.
- Keep the car fuelled and a go-bag ready.
2. During
- Evacuate early if authorities advise it. Do not wait to see it.
- Avoid areas downwind of the volcano and river valleys downstream. Mudflows move faster than you can run.
If ash is falling
- Stay indoors if you have supplies. Close windows, doors and vents.
- If you must go out, wear a well-fitting certified mask such as FFP2 or N95, goggles and long sleeves. Do not wear contact lenses.
- Do not drive in heavy ash. It reduces visibility, makes roads slippery, and clogs and stalls engines. If you must drive, keep windows closed and the air conditioning off.
- Bring pets inside and cover water containers.
- People with asthma or lung disease should stay away from ash and keep their medicine close.
3. After
- Stay indoors until authorities say it is safe.
- Stay off the roof unless you have training or official guidance. Ash is heavy and slippery, and roofs can collapse.
- Wear a mask and protective clothing while cleaning. Keep children out of the clean-up.
- Dampen ash lightly before sweeping so it does not rise. Do not wash it into drains.
- Do not drink water that has ash in it.
- Use text messages to contact family. Keep calls for emergencies.
Quick checklist
- Alert levels and evacuation route known
- FFP2 or N95 masks and goggles
- Water, food and medicines for several days
- Plastic sheeting and tape
- Car fuelled, go-bag ready
See also Urban Evacuation, Tsunamis and all risks.
Sources
- FEMA / Ready.gov: Volcanoes
- International Volcanic Health Hazard Network (IVHHN)
- USGS Volcano Hazards Program
Educational material. Always follow instructions from your local authorities. Last reviewed: November 2026.