Book 12, Question 135
Why Do Volcano Danger Zones Keep People Out?
Danger zones keep people out because the area near an erupting or restless volcano can be very risky. Lava, hot gas, falling rocks, and ash are most dangerous close to the crater. Distance gives time and protection.
More fun facts
- During an eruption, lava and other debris can flow at speeds up to 100 miles per hour, destroying everything in their path.
- Volcanic ash can travel hundreds of miles and cause serious health problems.
- The United States has 161 potentially active volcanoes, and Alaska, Hawaii, California, Washington and Oregon have the most.
- River valleys below a volcano are risky because gravity carries rubble down them, just as wind carries ash.
- Safety experts say that if you are told to evacuate from a volcano, you should leave early.
- Driving through heavy ash stirs it up, and it can clog engines and stall cars.
- An eruption can pollute water supplies and damage machinery.
- After an eruption, people should stay indoors until officials say it is safe to go outside.
Sources: ready.gov
Questions kids ask
Why can't people just watch an eruption up close?
Lava, debris and ash can move very fast, so danger zones keep people far enough away to stay safe.
Who decides when it is safe to go back?
Local officials, using advice from scientists, decide when people can return.