Volcanoes erupt when molten rock called magma rises to the surface. Magma is formed when the earth’s mantle melts. Another way an eruption happens is when water underneath the surface interacts with hot magma and creates steam, this can build up enough pressure to cause an explosion.

When rock from the mantle melts, moves to the surface through the crust, and releases pent-up gases, volcanoes erupt. Extremely high temperature and pressure cause the rock to melt and become liquid rock or magma. When a large body of magma has formed, it rises thorugh the denser rock layers toward Earth’s surface.

If inhaled, volcanic ash can cause breathing problems and damage the lungs. Inhaling large amounts of ash and volcanic gases can cause a person to suffocate. Suffocation is the most common cause of death from a volcano. Volcanic ash is very difficult to clean up.

Unlike the ash produced by burning wood and other organic materials, volcanic ash can be dangerous. Its particles are very hard and usually have jagged edges. As a result, it can cause eye, nose, and lung irritation, as well as breathing problems. Ash can also contaminate water supplies.

Fly ash particles (a major component of coal ash) can become lodged in the deepest part of your lungs, where they trigger asthma, inflammation and immunological reactions. Studies link these particulates to the four leading causes of death in the U.S.: heart disease, cancer, respiratory diseases and stroke.

A volcanic eruption can produce gases, lava, bombs of rock, volcanic ash, or any combination of these elements. The ash stains are confined to the south of the volcano’s summit, one large stain fanning out toward the southwest, and another toward the east. …

GNS Science advice on cleaning up volcanic ash recommends the following: Lightly dampen the ash (to prevent it billowing) and sweep it up. Remove ash immediately – before rain if possible. But remember that ash particles have sharp broken edges, making it a very abrasive material.

Ash Removal from the Inside of Buildings and Households

1. Cleaning by blowing with compressed air or dry sweeping should be minimized.
2. A dustless method of cleaning such as washing with water and an effective detergent/wetting agent is recommended.

The simplistic view of ash behavior in the atmosphere would suggest that very small (> 30 μm) ash should stay aloft for days to weeks – the settling rate is between 10-1 to 10-3 m/s if you apply Stokes Law to the settling of the ash.

5-10 years

What to do after a volcanic eruption

1. Listen to your local radio stations for civil defence advice and follow instructions.
2. Stay indoors and away from volcanic ashfall areas as much as possible.
3. When it is safe to go outside, keep your gutters and roof clear of ash as heavy ash deposits can collapse your roof.