About Hazards & Benefits
Volcanoes can be destructive, but volcanic regions also provide fertile soils, geothermal energy, minerals, tourism, and new land. Risk depends on eruption style, geography, population, preparation, and distance from hazards.
Lava Flows
Lava can destroy buildings, roads, and vegetation.
Learn MoreAsh
Ash can damage engines, crops, roofs, electronics, and lungs.
Learn MoreLahars
Lahars are fast-moving mixtures of volcanic debris and water.
Learn MoreGases
Volcanic gases can create local health hazards.
Learn MoreLandslides
Volcanic slopes can collapse.
Learn MoreFertile Soil
Weathered volcanic ash can produce nutrient-rich soils.
Learn MoreGeothermal Energy
Heat from volcanic regions can be used for electricity and heating.
Learn MoreNew Land
Lava can create new coastlines and islands.
Learn MoreLava Flows
Most flows move slowly enough for people to evacuate, but they can permanently alter communities and infrastructure.
Ash
Wet ash is heavy and can overload buildings.
Lahars
They can travel far down river valleys long after an eruption.
Gases
Carbon dioxide can collect in low areas, while sulfur dioxide can irritate lungs and form acid aerosols.
Landslides
Large landslides can happen with or without an eruption and may trigger tsunamis if they enter water.
Fertile Soil
This is one reason agriculture often becomes important near older volcanic landscapes.
Geothermal Energy
Geothermal power is important in places such as Iceland, New Zealand, and parts of the United States.
New Land
New rock begins a long process of weathering and ecological colonization.