Volcanology

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Volcanology is the scientific study of volcanoes, lava, magma, and related geological, geophysical and geochemical phenomena. A volcanic hazard refers to any potentially dangerous volcanic process like lava flows, pyroclastic flows, and ash. A Volcanic hazard is the probability that a volcanic eruption or related geophysical event will occur in a given geographic area and within a specified window of time. The risk that can be associated with a volcanic hazard depends on the proximity and vulnerability of an asset or a population of people near to where a volcanic event might occur.

The development of methods to predict volcanic eruptions is extremely important to provide for early evacuation of densely populated regions. Hazard and risk potential of volcanoes can be localized reasonably well.  A volcanic eruption cannot practically influenced by man. There are, however, limited possibilities to controlling several of its effects, such as barriers against lava flows or cooling lava with sea water. Smaller lahars can be channeled by artificial sabo dams. Fatalities and economic losses can be reduced if, associated with a well monitoring system, including Early Warning and land use planning, a culture of prevention is introduced within all levels of the society.