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How to Stay Safe Before, During, and After a Volcano Eruption

Learn what you should do if you live near an active volcano and how to stay safe before and after an eruption.

ByPaul Smaglik
Image Credit: oldravvv/Shutterstock

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The impending eruption of Alaska’s Mt. Spurr is a timely reminder that, if you live near a volcano, you should be prepared in case it blows. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) says there are 170 potentially active volcanoes in the country, and chances are you could live near one. But how should you prepare for an eruption and how can you recover after?

The first question one should ask themselves is, do I live within range of a volcano, and if so, how close? The USGS can help you assess your hazard. Although households within 20 miles are under the most danger, even people living as far as 200 miles away could be susceptible to some hazards, such as falling ash.

The next question is, what is the status of your volcano neighbor? The USGS can help you find an answer and provide monitoring. Once you have determined your ...

  • Paul Smaglik

    Before joining Discover Magazine, Paul Smaglik spent over 20 years as a science journalist, specializing in U.S. life science policy and global scientific career issues. He began his career in newspapers, but switched to scientific magazines. His work has appeared in publications including Science News, Science, Nature, and Scientific American.

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