Volcanic Eruptions - One of Mother Natures Deadly Forces - Free Essay Example

Volcanic eruptions can be explosive or they cannot. It all depends whether the magma is thin or thick. If the magma is thin then gases can escape easily. When this type of magma erupts then it will pour out of the volcano. If the magma is thick and sticky then gases cannot escape easily. This causes the pressure to build up which then results in explosions as a way to release the trapped gases. The effects of thin magma pouring out of a volcano can be bad. Melted magma can reach temperatures of 2,221 degrees Fahrenheit so you can probably guess that anything it touches will be destroyed from the heat. The effects of thick and sticky magma are explosions. These explosions are dangerous and can be deadly. In these types of explosions the magma explodes into the air and breaks into pieces of Tephra. The Tephra can range in sizes from tiny particles, to boulders, to the size of houses. They also blast out huge clouds of Tephra. These fiery clouds race down the volcano destroying everything in their path. Volcanoes usually give off warnings before they erupt. There are many different signs, but each helps detect how bad the eruption will be. These signs include small earthquakes underneath the volcano, an increase in seismic waves, slight swelling of the volcano, and an increase in heat and gas pressure. Warning signs of a possible volcano eruption can be detected weeks sometimes months in advance. If the volcano is said to erupt at any time the local government for the area will call for an evacuation. One of the ways to prepare for volcanic eruption is to make an emergency supplies kit. This is an easy and affordable thing to do. Inside the kit should be non-perishable food, water, a battery powered radio or hand-cranked radio, flashlights, extra batteries, and a first aid kit. Another great thing to have is a family emergency plan. It is important to have a specific meeting place in case everyone isnt together during an eruption. When authorities issue an evacuation order please listen and leave the area near the volcano. If for some reason you are unable to evacuate then make sure you are indoors with all windows, doors, and ventilation systems closed to protect you from falling debris and ash, and mud slides. The effects of volcanic eruptions can be big and can be felt as far away as a different continent. If you have an explosive eruption the outcome can be devastating. The magma that spews out of the volcano can travel for miles destroying every single plant, structure, and habitat in its way. The ash also deems as a threat. The ash can cause damage to structures depending on amount, and if it is breathed in it poses as a choking risk. The effects on cities and towns could vary from none to a lot; it all depends on the type of explosion. All volcanic eruptions should be handled with caution and care. Volcanic eruptions can be dangerous catastrophic events with unimaginable outcomes. If you are ever in or near the radius of an eruption then please take all necessary cautions to assure your safety.