Volcanic hazards

• A jökulhlaup is a flood caused by a sudden release of water and rocks when glacial ice is melted by a volcanic eruption.
• Acid rain forms when sulphur dioxide emitted during the eruption reacts with water vapour in the atmosphere to form sulphuric acid.
• Basaltic lava, which has low gas content, low viscosity and a higher temperature, is typically found at constructive margins
• Most active volcanoes occur at or near plate boundaries, with about 75% occurring around the 'Ring of Fire' surrounding the Pacific Ocean.
• Secondary economic impacts of volcanic eruptions include:

  • Increased food prices.
  • Slower economic growth.
  • Decrease in tourism.