A volcanic eruption

Nowadays the humanity suffers from a great number of natural and man-made disasters. The scientific and technological progress has changed the life on our planet and, as a result, our natural resources are exhausted, the ecological balance of the planet is disturbed, many species of flora and fauna disappeared, pollution threatens everything alive. Man destroys the environment with arson, oil spills and the use of chemicals. However, the environmental problems are not the only ones. Every year thousands of people die because of natural disasters such as floods, tidal waves, droughts, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, avalanches and landslides. I think the biggest problem with natural disasters is that we can’t predict and avoid them in time. 

A volcanic eruption is very dangerous as it causes massive destruction as well as deaths.At first, a mountain is hit by an earthquake and the top of the mountain is blown off by an explosion which might be heard miles away. Huge blocks of ice and rock fall onto the surrounding area, then the tremendous heat inside is released. Hot ash and gas come out of the mountain, causing a lightning storm as it  rises into the air. White ash, along with steam and thick mud, continue to pour from the giant crater left by the explosion.

At each stage of this dramatic eruption people are killed. The explosion causes the first casualties; people are injured or die due to the force and heat of it. Then the hot ash starts fires which burn vast areas of forest, causing more deaths.The volcanic cloud might be so large and dark that it seems day turns into night, forcing airports to close temporarily as pilots might fly their plane into a cloud, hit electricity cables and crash. Mud from the volcano runs down the mountainside and fills rivers, causing flooding. People living nearby are forced to leave their homes as the water continues to rise.

If a natural disaster strikes some place, lots of people help survivors. Rescue workers pick up casualties and survivors by helicopter, move them away from the dangerous area and take them to hospital if necessary. Sometimes Red Cross doctors treat the injured. Volunteers build shelters, fire-fighters put out the fires and other countries send emergency medical supplies. The government gives money to help pay for the rebuilding of the houses which have been destroyed while survivors are trying to get over the shock. 

During a Volcanic Eruption

• Listen to a local station on a portable, battery-operated radio or television for updated emergency information and instructions. If the electricity is out, this may be your main source of information. Local officials will give the most appropriate advice for your particular situation on local media.

• Follow any evacuation orders issued by authorities. Although it may seem safe to stay at home and wait out an eruption, doing so could be very dangerous if you are in a hazard zone. The best way to stay safe is to take the advice of local authorities.

• If indoors, close all windows and doors to keep volcanic ash from entering. 

• If outdoors, take shelter indoors. Your safest place is indoors, away from various hazards.

• Stay out of designated restricted zones. Effects of a volcanic eruption can be experienced many miles from a volcano.

• Avoid low-lying areas and river valleys downstream of the volcano. Debris and ash will be carried by wind and gravity.

• Stay in areas where you will not be further exposed to volcanic eruption hazards.

• Wear a dust mask designed to protect against lung irritation from small particles.

• Protect your eyes by wearing goggles. Wear eyeglasses, not contact lenses.

• Keep as much of your skin covered as possible.