Quick Answer
Yes, evacuate immediately if you're in the immediate vicinity of a volcano, with a VEI (Volcanic Explosivity Index) of 4 or higher, as it poses a significant threat to life and property.
Understanding the Threat
A volcano with a VEI of 4 or higher is capable of producing massive ash clouds, pyroclastic flows, and lahars that can cause widespread destruction and loss of life. If you’re in the immediate vicinity, evacuate immediately, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions. For example, the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens in Washington, USA, had a VEI of 5 and killed 57 people, while the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in Iceland had a VEI of 4 and disrupted air travel across Europe.
Assessing the Risk
To determine the severity of the eruption, pay attention to the following indicators: ash fall, gas emissions, and seismic activity. If you notice a sudden increase in ash fall, or if gas emissions become more intense, it may be a sign that the eruption is intensifying. Seismic activity, such as earthquakes and tremors, can also indicate an impending larger eruption. If you’re unsure about the severity of the eruption, err on the side of caution and evacuate the area immediately.
Evacuation Techniques
When evacuating, follow these specific techniques to ensure your safety: stay informed through local news and emergency alerts, follow evacuation routes and instructions from authorities, and stay away from rivers and streams as lahars can occur. In case of an ash fall, wear a mask or respirator to avoid inhaling toxic particles, and keep windows and doors closed to prevent ash from entering your home. Additionally, keep a safe distance from the volcano, at least 10-15 kilometers away, to avoid the impact of pyroclastic flows and lahars.
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