MODULE 5: VOLCANO HAZARD
Objectives:
Explain various volcano-related hazards.
Differentiate among different volcano hazards.
Recognize and identify signs of an impending volcanic eruption.
Explain and interpret different volcano hazard maps.
Apply appropriate measures/interventions before, during and after a volcanic eruption.
Lesson Presentation
Volcanoes are openings in Earth’s crust that allows the energy from the interior of Earth to escape to the
surface. The energy in the magma (composed of molten rocks from Earth’s mantle) that goes out are in the form
of lava, ash, and gas.
Most of the islands in the Philippines are volcanic in origin. Recall again that the Philippines is located near
the Pacific Ring of Fire, and that the Philippine Plate’s western edge (Philippine Fault System) runs from north
all the way to the south of the country. Given another fact that the plate edge can be branch out to several
smaller faults and fissures, these cracks and openings are where volcanoes have formed.
According to PHIVOLCS, there are more than 20 historically active volcanoes in the country that were active in
the last 600 years.
Different Types of Volcanoes
Cinder cones.
These are considered as the simplest type of volcanoes. They are formed from lava particles emitted in a vent.
As the lava spewed out into the air, it fragments into small debris later on solidifies and falls as cinder around
the vent.
Shield cones
These volcanoes are created because of continuous lava flow coming from the vents. As these lava flows cool
down, they produce a warrior’s shield-like sloping flat cone. Some of the largest volcanoes in the world are
shield volcanoes like Mauna Loa in Hawaii which arises 4000 meters above sea level.
Composite volcanoes
Also known as “stratovolcanoes”, this type of volcanoes is often steep-sided and the cones are closely
symmetrical. These are also covered with layers of lava flows and ash that rise up to 2500 meters. Some
examples of composite volcanoes include Mount Fuji in Japan and Mount Mayon in the Philippines.
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CLASSIFICATION OF VOLCANOES
Thousands of volcanoes on earth can be classified as either active or extinct depending on its history of
eruption.
Active Volcano
According to the Smithsonian Global Volcanism Program, it is an active volcano has at least one eruption
within the last 10,000 years. Active volcano is further classified into two categories, erupting and dormant
volcanoes.
Erupting volcano erupts, distinguished as either explosive or quiet. An explosive eruption happens
because of a formation of gases under viscous flow of magma. This kind of eruption is often violent
and rapid. It ejects volcanic materials, lava flows, and ash onto large area. A quite eruption is
classified only when it emits low viscous lava where gases can easily escape.
Dormant volcano. A volcano is dormant if it is not erupted within the last 10 000 years. It is not
certain when this kind of volcano will erupt, but it is expected to occur in the future.
Extinct Volcano
This kind of volcano has not had an eruption within historic times and is not expected to erupt again in a
comparable time scale of the future. One such volcano is Kohala in Big Island, Hawaii. The last time that
Kohala erupted was close to 60 000 years ago. As of now volcanologist do not believe that Kohala will ever be
active again. However, there are volcanoes that are considered extinct but become suddenly active like Mt.
Pinatubo, which erupted in 1991.
Potential Volcano-Related Hazards
Volcano hazards are volcano-related phenomena that pose potential threat or negative impact to life,
property, and the environment in a given period of time. The following are some potential volcano-related
hazard.
LAHAR – This is an Indonesian term for the mixture of water, pyroclastic materials, and rock
fragments flowing down a volcano or river valley. When lahar flows from a volcano, it is highly
destructive to anything in its path. Lahar is powerful enough to remove or carry away trees, boulders,
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and logs. Building, houses, and other structures can be partially or completely buried by the turbulent
flow of lahar.
ASH FALL – This is composed of bits and pieces of pulverized rock, minerals, and volcanic glass
generated from the volcanic eruption. These fragments measure less than 2 mm (0.079 inches). In
diameter. Volcanic ash is usually spewed out from explosive eruptions when dissolved gases in magma
expand and go out violently into the atmosphere. The impact from the released gas shatters the magma
and is forced out into the atmosphere where it hardens into fragments of volcanic rock and glass. When
they fall to the ground, they can cause clogs and corrosion of structures, and health problems of humans.
The most common health risk associated with ash fall is respiratory diseases related to asthma,
bronchitis, and emphysema. Dehydration, starvation, and poisoning on the other hand, are among the
health problems of animals exposed to ash fall.
PYROCLASTIC FLOW – This refers to the fast-moving fluidized mass of rock fragments and gases.
When pyroclastic flow travels down a volcano, it maintains a very high temperature, burning everything
in its path. In fact, in the Mt. Pinatubo eruption in 1991, some pyroclastic flows had temperature about
750ºC. Such high temperatures instantly burn man-made structures and vegetation. Pyroclastic flows can
easily incinerate, burn, and suffocate humans and animals.
What have I learn so far?
Why are lahars and pyroclastic flows considered the greatest volcano hazard?
BALLISTIC PROJECTILE – This is a rock fragment that is ejected from a volcano during its
explosive eruption. It is like a cannonball that travels fast in the air. According to USGS (United State
Geological Services), volcanic projectile can be bombs and blocks. If the projectile or rock fragment is
solid when ejected, it is considered as block. But, if it is launched partially molten or molten state, it is a
bomb. The impact of projectiles poses a serious hazard to humans, plants and animals, and properties.
Ballistic projectiles can travel as far as 5 km or even further, depending on the magnitude of explosion.
VOLCANO GAS – This consists of sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, which are poisonous and
hazardous to organisms. These are the main constituents of the magma that is spewed out during an
eruption. The excessive composition of these chemicals in the air can cause acid rain. Plants, building
and other structures that are exposed to acid rain are prone to corrosion. Volcanic gas also causes
respiratory problems and other health risks. Communities that are exposed to volcanic eruption may
experience asthma or difficulty in breathing.
LAVA FLOW – This is a molten rock that pours down from the slopes of volcano. It is different from
pyroclastic flows in that lava is denser and hence moves slowly. Thus, it gives more time for animals
and humans to move away from its path, unlike pyroclastic flow that may leave no time for organisms to
react. Lava flows can kill vegetation and destroy property by burning homes and destroying
infrastructure, such as bridges and roads. Forest fires can be ignited by lava flow.
Signs of Impending Volcanic Eruption
Recent advancements in predicting and monitoring volcanic activity have significantly reduced volcanic
risks. These are number of warning signs when an active volcano is about to erupt. Here are some of them:
1. Occurrence of tremors or increase in the frequency of small earthquakes.
2. Deformation in the ground manifested by changes in ground elevation (tilting) and formation of cracks or
openings (ground fissuring). All these observation can support the speculation that rocks are being
pushed upward and out of the crater of the volcano.
3. Increase in the amount of volcanic gases and its temperature, which may indicate the
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magma has gone closer to the surface.
4. Glow of volcanic crater due to the presence of magma.
5. Increase in steam emission coming from volcanic opening, fissures, or hot springs.
6. Thermal changes within the surroundings of the volcano.
7. Change in the color of nearby vegetation and lakes (The color changes in vegetation and lakes are due to
the dissolution of minerals and other acidic chemicals from the volcano that found their way into these
open areas.)
8. Landslide and rock fall not due to heavy rains.
9. Drying up of springs and freshwater sources around the volcano.
Interpreting Volcanic Hazard Maps
Volcanoes are scattered from north to south of the Philippines. Those coded in green indicate dormant
volcanoes which, based on their history have not shown or never shown any signs of activity in terms of
tremors, gas emissions and heat release in the future. Other volcanoes are known to be active within the last
600 years and these are indicated in red triangles. PHIVOLCS has been closely monitoring the active
volcanoes to alert communities in the immediate vicinity of any danger. The last type of volcanoes are
considered potentially active, shown in yellow triangles, which are categorized by volcanologists and
geologists are those that are not currently exhibiting signs of eruption but have a high possibility of any
form of seismic activity in the future.
The areas listed by PHIVOLCS as high risk to volcanic eruption are Camiguin, Sulu, Biliran, Albay,
Bataan, Sorsogon, South Cotabato, Laguna, CAmarines Sur and Batanes.
VOLCANO ALERT LEVELS
To reduce death toll and property devastation during volcanic eruptions, the United State Geological Survey (USDS)
Volcano Hazard Program has adopted an alert notification system. This standard system has two parts – a four tiered
Volcano Alert Level and a four tiered Aviation Color Code and is being utilized by all the observatories associated to
USGS.
Summary of Volcano Alert Levels Summary of Aviation Color Codes
Volcano is in typical Volcano is in typical
background non-eruptive GREEN background non-eruptive
NORMAL state. state.
Volcano is exhibiting signs of Volcano is exhibiting signs of
elevated unrest above known elevated unrest above known
background level. Volcanic background level. Volcanic
activity has decreased YELLOW activity has decreased
ADVISORY significantly but continues to significantly but continues to
be closely monitored for be closely monitored for
possible renewed increase. possible renewed increase
Volcano is exhibiting Volcano is exhibiting
heightened or escalating heightened or escalating
unrest with increased potential unrest with increased potential
of eruption, time frame ORANGE of eruption, time frame
WATCH uncertain, or eruption is uncertain, or eruption is
underway but poses limited underway with no minor
hazards. volcanic ash emissions.
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Hazardous eruption is Eruption is imminent with
WARNING imminent, underway, or RED significant emission of
suspected volcanic ash into the
atmosphere
Source: USGS Volcanic Activity Alert Notification System http://volcanoes.usgs.gov./activity/alertsystem/
VOLCANIC ALERT LEVEL IN THE PHILIPPINES
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) can warn the people on the status of the volcano
following this Alert Level Scheme:
Level Description
No Alert
0
Abnormal
Low level unrest. No eruption imminent.
1
Increasing Unrest
Moderate unrest. Unrest probably of magmatic origin eventually lead to eruption.
2
Increasing Tendency Towards Eruption
Relatively high unrest. Magma is close to the crater.
3
Hazardous Eruption Imminent
Intense unrest. Hazardous eruption is possible within days
4
Hazardous Eruption
Hazardous eruption ongoing.
5
Precautionary and Safety Measures BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER Volcanic
Eruptions
Before an Eruption
1. Stay updated with the local news.
2. Lear about your community warning system and emergency plans. Have a meeting with all family
members and make a family emergency preparedness plan. Make sure that each member is well informed of
your plan and he or she knows the emergency supply kit is.
3. Prepare and emergency supply kit that should include the following: First –aid kit, clean clothes, food
and water, flashlight with extra batteries, battery-operated radio, prescribed medicines, dusk masks, goggles,
and sturdy shoes.
4. Pack all important and essential items in light and waterproof containers.
5. Secure livestock in enclosed shelter.
6. Listen to public safety announcements of local authorities. Follow the authorities instructions if they tell
you to evacuate the area.
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During an Eruption
1. Follow evacuation orders issued by local authorities and remind family members of your disaster plan.
2. If told to stay indoors, place a damp cloth over your windows and, if possible, over your doors.
3. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
4. Use goggles to protect your eyes.
5. Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to prevent inhalation of ashes and other volcanic
particles.
6. Avoid low –lying regions and river areas near the volcano. Volcanic debris and ash will be carried by the
wind and gravity.
7. Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest emergency information.
After an Eruption
1. Wait for the announcement from local authorities that it is safe to return to your house.
2. Inspect your house carefully for any damage before you enter it.
3. If you or a family member has a respiratory ailment such as asthma or bronchitis stay away from
volcanic ash fall areas.
4. Wear a dust mask, gloves, and goggles while cleaning the debris and ashfall on the roof of your
house to avoid further damage.
5. Check electrical wirings, appliances, and gas tanks before using them.
6. Boil water before drinking it. Groundwater pipes may have been contaminated by volcanic
particles.
7. Stay informed and listen for emergency updates and news.
References
Oliva, M., (2016) Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction Module, Volcano Hazards. DIWA Senior High
School Series
De Guzman, F., Suarez, D. (2016) Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction: Volcano Hazards. Vibal Groups Inc.
Note: Submit only the Daily Learning Activity (DLA)
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Prepared by:
Ms. Ma. Janice P. Garcia
Science Teacher
Cainta Catholic College
Cainta, Rizal
DAILY LEARNING ACTIVITY SHEET
Name: ______________________________ Score: __________
Year & Section: ______________________ Date Accomplished: __________
Subject: ____________________________ Signature of Parent / Guardian: ____________
Date Monitored: _____________
(Activity #1)
Activity Title: Volcanoes in the Philippines
Learning Target: Identify the location and classify volcano according to their morphology and type of activity
Reference Title: Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction, DIWA Senior High School Series
Author: Oliva, M.
MAIN IDEA
Most of the islands in the Philippines are volcanic in origin. Recall again that the Philippines is located near
the Pacific Ring of Fire, and that the Philippine Plate’s western edge (Philippine Fault System) runs from north
all the way to the south of the country. Given another fact that the plate edge can be branch out to several
smaller faults and fissures, these cracks and openings are where volcanoes have formed.
According to PHIVOLCS, there are more than 20 historically active volcanoes in the country that were active in
the last 600 years.
EXERCISE
Research for at least 10 volcanoes in the Philippines. Identify their location and classify them according to their
morphology and type of activity.
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Cainta Catholic College
Cainta, Rizal
DAILY LEARNING ACTIVITY SHEET
Name: ______________________________ Score: __________
Year & Section: ______________________ Date Accomplished: __________
Subject: ____________________________ Signature of Parent / Guardian: ____________
Date Monitored: _____________
(Activity #2)
Activity Title: Volcano Hazards
Learning Target: Explain various volcano-related hazards.
Reference Title: Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction, DIWA Senior High School Series
Author: Oliva, M.
MAIN IDEA
Volcano hazards are volcano-related phenomena that pose potential threat or negative impact to life,
property, and the environment in a given period of time.
EXERCISE
Direction: Answer the following:
1. What are the different types of volcano hazard? Describe each.
2. What makes volcano hazard dangerous to communities and human lives?
3. How can the government ensure the safety of people living in communities near volcano?
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Cainta Catholic College
Cainta, Rizal
DAILY LEARNING ACTIVITY SHEET
Name: ______________________________ Score: __________
Year & Section: ______________________ Date Accomplished: __________
Subject: ____________________________ Signature of Parent / Guardian: ____________
Date Monitored: _____________
(Activity #3)
Activity Title: Apply it in Real life
Learning Target: Identify the effects of volcano related hazards.
Reference Title: Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction, DIWA Senior High School Series
Author: Oliva, M.
MAIN IDEA
Volcano hazards are volcano-related phenomena that pose potential threat or negative impact to life,
property, and the environment in a given period of time.
EXERCISE
Apply It In Real Life
You work in Pyrovol Consulting Company that specializes in the assessment of effects of volcanic eruptions.
A local government hires your company to make a report of their city’s susceptibility to volcanic hazards. As
the person assigned for the job, you are to explain to the mayor the effects of each volcanic hazard to people and
properties. Show a graphic organizer as part of your report. The mayor will study and analyze your report, so it
should be organized, detailed and clear. Your report will be used by the local government to make appropriate
plans for the likely occurrence of volcanic hazards in their area, which happens to have an active volcano.
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