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Is it dangerous to work on volcanoes? What precautions do scientists take?

Volcanoes are inherently beautiful places where forces of nature combine to produce awesome events and spectacular landscapes. For volcanologists, they're FUN to work on! Safety is, however, always the primary concern because volcanoes can be dangerous places. USGS scientists try hard to understand the risk inherent in any situation, then train and equip themselves with the tools and support necessary to provide a comfortable margin of safety. Such training involves learning the past and current activity of the volcano, first aid, helicopter safety procedures, and wilderness survival techniques. When working around non-explosive volcanoes in places like Hawaii, USGS scientists go through training to wear gas masks and use heat-resistant gear as needed.

Learn more: USGS Volcano Hazards Program

Related

Geologist conducting field work at Bezymiany volcano in Kamchatka, Russia

What kind of school training do you need to become a volcanologist? What kind of school training do you need to become a volcanologist?

There are many paths to becoming a volcanologist. Most include a college or graduate school education in a scientific or technical field, but the range of specialties is very large. Training in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, biology, biochemistry, mathematics, statistics, engineering, atmospheric science, remote sensing, and related fields can be applied to the study of volcanoes and the...

What kind of school training do you need to become a volcanologist?

What kind of school training do you need to become a volcanologist?

There are many paths to becoming a volcanologist. Most include a college or graduate school education in a scientific or technical field, but the range of specialties is very large. Training in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, biology, biochemistry, mathematics, statistics, engineering, atmospheric science, remote sensing, and related fields can be applied to the study of volcanoes and the...

Learn More
Measuring water levels at a Summit Springs Canyon well in the Black Rock National Conservation Area, Nev.

Where can I find information on employment with the USGS? Where can I find information on employment with the USGS?

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a Federal science agency in the U.S. Department of the Interior that provides impartial information on the health of our ecosystems and environment, the natural hazards that threaten us, the natural resources we rely on, the impacts of climate and land-use change, and the core science systems that help us provide timely, relevant, and useable...

Where can I find information on employment with the USGS?

Where can I find information on employment with the USGS?

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a Federal science agency in the U.S. Department of the Interior that provides impartial information on the health of our ecosystems and environment, the natural hazards that threaten us, the natural resources we rely on, the impacts of climate and land-use change, and the core science systems that help us provide timely, relevant, and useable...

Learn More
Image: Alaska Volcano Observatory Operations

Why is it important to monitor volcanoes? Why is it important to monitor volcanoes?

There are 161 potentially active volcanoes in the United States. According to a 2018 USGS assessment, 57 volcanoes are a high threat or very high threat to public safety. Many of these volcanoes have erupted in the recent past and will erupt again in the foreseeable future. As populations increase, areas near volcanoes are being developed and aviation routes are increasing. As a result, more...

Why is it important to monitor volcanoes?

Why is it important to monitor volcanoes?

There are 161 potentially active volcanoes in the United States. According to a 2018 USGS assessment, 57 volcanoes are a high threat or very high threat to public safety. Many of these volcanoes have erupted in the recent past and will erupt again in the foreseeable future. As populations increase, areas near volcanoes are being developed and aviation routes are increasing. As a result, more...

Learn More
A repeating loop showing a hammer scooping lava from a flow and dropping it into a bucket.

Lava sampling: Why do we do it? Lava sampling: Why do we do it?

Hot lava samples provide important information about what's going on in a volcano's magma chambers. We know from laboratory experiments that the more magnesium there is in magma, the hotter it is. Chemical analysis, therefore, provides the means not only to determine the crystallization history of lava but also to establish the temperature at which it was erupted. For example, Kilauea's 1997 lavas...

Lava sampling: Why do we do it?

Lava sampling: Why do we do it?

Hot lava samples provide important information about what's going on in a volcano's magma chambers. We know from laboratory experiments that the more magnesium there is in magma, the hotter it is. Chemical analysis, therefore, provides the means not only to determine the crystallization history of lava but also to establish the temperature at which it was erupted. For example, Kilauea's 1997 lavas...

Learn More
High-tech instruments track volcanic gases at Kīlauea Volcano...

How are volcanic gases measured? How are volcanic gases measured?

Instruments to measure sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide can be mounted in aircraft to determine the quantity of gas being emitted on a daily basis. Such instruments can also be used in a ground-based mode. An instrument that detects carbon dioxide can be installed on a volcano and configured to send data continuously via radio to an observatory. Sulfur dioxide in volcanic clouds can also be...

How are volcanic gases measured?

How are volcanic gases measured?

Instruments to measure sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide can be mounted in aircraft to determine the quantity of gas being emitted on a daily basis. Such instruments can also be used in a ground-based mode. An instrument that detects carbon dioxide can be installed on a volcano and configured to send data continuously via radio to an observatory. Sulfur dioxide in volcanic clouds can also be...

Learn More
Image: Augustine Volcano

How can we tell when a volcano will erupt? How can we tell when a volcano will erupt?

Most volcanoes provide warnings before an eruption. Magmatic eruptions involve the rise of magma toward the surface, which normally generates detectable earthquakes. It can also deform the ground surface and cause anomalous heat flow or changes in the temperature and chemistry of the groundwater and spring waters. Steam-blast eruptions, however, can occur with little or no warning as superheated...

How can we tell when a volcano will erupt?

How can we tell when a volcano will erupt?

Most volcanoes provide warnings before an eruption. Magmatic eruptions involve the rise of magma toward the surface, which normally generates detectable earthquakes. It can also deform the ground surface and cause anomalous heat flow or changes in the temperature and chemistry of the groundwater and spring waters. Steam-blast eruptions, however, can occur with little or no warning as superheated...

Learn More
Scientists work gather around a volcano monitoring station
July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea
July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea
Scientists work gather around a volcano monitoring station

July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea

July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea

On July 10, USGS field engineers visited one of the volcanic gas monitoring stations downwind of the summit of Kīlauea, within the closed area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This area has been blanketed with tephra material during recent eruptive episodes within Halemaʻumaʻu. USGS photo by M. Cappos. 

By
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Scientists work gather around a volcano monitoring station

July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea

July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea

On July 10, USGS field engineers visited one of the volcanic gas monitoring stations downwind of the summit of Kīlauea, within the closed area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This area has been blanketed with tephra material during recent eruptive episodes within Halemaʻumaʻu. USGS photo by M. Cappos. 

By
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Color photograph of scientists at volcanic gas monitoring equipment
January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment
January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment
Color photograph of scientists at volcanic gas monitoring equipment

January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment

January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment

USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists check volcanic gas monitoring equipment located downwind of the erupting vents in Kaluapele, Kīlauea summit caldera. The light-brown eruptive plume from episode 4 of the eruption is visible in the background of the image. USGS photo by B. Lopez. 

By
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Color photograph of scientists at volcanic gas monitoring equipment

January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment

January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment

USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists check volcanic gas monitoring equipment located downwind of the erupting vents in Kaluapele, Kīlauea summit caldera. The light-brown eruptive plume from episode 4 of the eruption is visible in the background of the image. USGS photo by B. Lopez. 

By
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Color photograph of scientist checking monitoring equipment on volcano
December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment
December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment
Color photograph of scientist checking monitoring equipment on volcano

December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment

December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment

A USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist checks a webcam located on the rim of Kīlauea caldera. The webcam network at the summit of Kīlauea volcano is crucial for monitoring eruptions such as the one that began today, December 23, 2024, in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. USGS image by M. Patrick. 

By
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Color photograph of scientist checking monitoring equipment on volcano

December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment

December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment

A USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist checks a webcam located on the rim of Kīlauea caldera. The webcam network at the summit of Kīlauea volcano is crucial for monitoring eruptions such as the one that began today, December 23, 2024, in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. USGS image by M. Patrick. 

By
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Image: Taking Lava Samples
Taking Lava Samples
Taking Lava Samples
Image: Taking Lava Samples

Taking Lava Samples

Taking Lava Samples

Geologist taking a sample from a recently formed skylight on the Quarry flow lava tube. Samples collected directly from the lava tube are usually the best samples for chemical analysis.

By
Volcano Hazards Program
Image: Taking Lava Samples

Taking Lava Samples

Taking Lava Samples

Geologist taking a sample from a recently formed skylight on the Quarry flow lava tube. Samples collected directly from the lava tube are usually the best samples for chemical analysis.

By
Volcano Hazards Program
Image: Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal
Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal
Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal
Image: Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

This image shows an HVO geologist sampling the lava that was seeping out of the interior of the rootless shield. The lava was placed in a bucket of water to quench the sample. The top frame is a normal photograph, while the bottom frame is a thermal image taken within a fraction of a second of the photograph.

By
Volcano Hazards Program
Image: Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

This image shows an HVO geologist sampling the lava that was seeping out of the interior of the rootless shield. The lava was placed in a bucket of water to quench the sample. The top frame is a normal photograph, while the bottom frame is a thermal image taken within a fraction of a second of the photograph.

By
Volcano Hazards Program
video thumbnail: Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980 video thumbnail: Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980
Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980
video thumbnail: Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

USGS scientists recount their experiences before, during and after the May 18, 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. Loss of their colleague David A. Johnston and 56 others in the eruption cast a pall over one of the most dramatic geologic moments in American history.

By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
video thumbnail: Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

USGS scientists recount their experiences before, during and after the May 18, 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. Loss of their colleague David A. Johnston and 56 others in the eruption cast a pall over one of the most dramatic geologic moments in American history.

By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
Image: Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.
Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.
Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.
Image: Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Kate Bull using a FLIR camera out the open door of an A-Star helicopter with the Redoubt summit and lava dome visible.

By
Volcano Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Image: Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Kate Bull using a FLIR camera out the open door of an A-Star helicopter with the Redoubt summit and lava dome visible.

By
Volcano Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens
Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens reawakened in late September 2004. Small magnitude earthquakes beneath the 1980-1986 lava dome increased in frequency and size, and a growing welt formed on the southeast margin of the previous lava dome and nearby portions of Crater Glacier.

By
Natural Hazards, Volcano Hazards, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing

Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens reawakened in late September 2004. Small magnitude earthquakes beneath the 1980-1986 lava dome increased in frequency and size, and a growing welt formed on the southeast margin of the previous lava dome and nearby portions of Crater Glacier.

By
Natural Hazards, Volcano Hazards, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
Image shows two scientists on the slopes of Mount St. Helens with steam rising around them
Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome
Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome
Image shows two scientists on the slopes of Mount St. Helens with steam rising around them

Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome

Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome

USGS geologists gathered samples by hand from vents on the dome and crater floor. Additionally, sulfur dioxide gas was measured from a specially equipped airplane before, during, and after eruptions to determine "emission rates" for the volcano.

By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
Image shows two scientists on the slopes of Mount St. Helens with steam rising around them

Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome

Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome

USGS geologists gathered samples by hand from vents on the dome and crater floor. Additionally, sulfur dioxide gas was measured from a specially equipped airplane before, during, and after eruptions to determine "emission rates" for the volcano.

By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
Image: ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano
ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano
ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano
Image: ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded student Taryn Lopez (Univ. Alaska-Fairbanks) sampling gas emissions at fumarole next to dome at the summit of Augustine volcano.

By
Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Image: ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded student Taryn Lopez (Univ. Alaska-Fairbanks) sampling gas emissions at fumarole next to dome at the summit of Augustine volcano.

By
Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing

When volcanoes fall down—Catastrophic collapse and debris avalanches When volcanoes fall down—Catastrophic collapse and debris avalanches

Despite their seeming permanence, volcanoes are prone to catastrophic collapse that can affect vast areas in a matter of minutes. Large collapses begin as gigantic landslides that quickly transform to debris avalanches—chaotically tumbling masses of rock debris that can sweep downslope at extremely high velocities, inundating areas far beyond the volcano. Rapid burial by the debris...
Authors
Lee Siebert, Mark Reid, James Vallance, Thomas Pierson
By
Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center

Living with volcano hazards Living with volcano hazards

Volcanic eruptions are among Earth’s most dramatic and powerful agents of change. Ash, mudflows, and lava flows can devastate communities near volcanoes and cause havoc in areas far downwind, downstream, and downslope. Even when a volcano is quiet, steep volcanic slopes can collapse to become landslides, and large rocks can be hurled by powerful steam blasts. Hazardous volcanic...
Authors
Wendy K. Stovall, Carolyn Driedger, Elizabeth Westby, Lisa M. Faust
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center

2018 update to the U.S. Geological Survey national volcanic threat assessment 2018 update to the U.S. Geological Survey national volcanic threat assessment

When erupting, all volcanoes pose a degree of risk to people and infrastructure, however, the risks are not equivalent from one volcano to another because of differences in eruptive style and geographic location. Assessing the relative threats posed by U.S. volcanoes identifies which volcanoes warrant the greatest risk-mitigation efforts by the U.S. Geological Survey and its partners...
Authors
John W. Ewert, Angela K. Diefenbach, David Ramsey
By
Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center, Agrigan, Ahyi Seamount, Alamagan, Anatahan, Asuncion, Belknap, Black Butte Crater Lava Field, Black Rock Desert Volcanic Field, Blue Lake Crater, Carrizozo Lava Flow, Cascade Range Weekly Update, Cinnamon Butte, Clear Lake Volcanic Field, Coso Volcanic Field, Crater Lake, Craters of the Moon Volcanic Field, Daikoku Seamount , Davis Lake Volcanic Field, Devils Garden Lava Field, Diamond Craters Volcanic Field, Dotsero Volcanic Center, East Diamante, Esmeralda Bank, Farallon de Pajaros, Fukujin Seamount , Glacier Peak, Guguan, Haleakalā, Hell's Half Acre Lava Field, Hualālai, Indian Heaven Volcanic Field, Jordan Craters Volcanic Field, Kama‘ehuakanaloa, Kasuga 2, Kīlauea, Lassen Volcanic Center, Long Valley Caldera, Mammoth Mountain, Markagunt Plateau Volcanic Field, Maug Islands, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, Medicine Lake, Mono Lake Volcanic Field, Mono-Inyo Craters, Mount Adams, Mount Bachelor, Mount Baker, Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Mount Rainier, Mount Shasta, Mount St. Helens, Newberry, Ofu-Olosega, Pagan, Red Hill-Quemado Volcanic Field, Ruby, Salton Buttes, San Francisco Volcanic Field, Sand Mountain Volcanic Field, Sarigan, Soda Lakes, South Sarigan Seamount, Supply Reef, Ta'u Island, Three Sisters, Tutuila Island, Ubehebe Craters, Uinkaret Volcanic Field, Valles Caldera, Wapi Lava Field, Weekly Update, West Crater Volcanic Field, Yellowstone, Zealandia Bank, Zuni-Bandera Volcanic Field

Science for a risky world—A U.S. Geological Survey plan for risk research and applications Science for a risky world—A U.S. Geological Survey plan for risk research and applications

Executive SummaryNatural hazards—including earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, landslides, hurricanes, droughts, floods, wildfires, geomagnetic storms, and pandemics—can wreak havoc on human communities, the economy, and natural resources for years following an initial event. Hazards can claim lives and cause billions of dollars in damage to homes and infrastructure as well as...
Authors
K. Ludwig, David Ramsey, Nathan Wood, A.B. Pennaz, Jonathan Godt, Nathaniel Plant, Nico Luco, Todd Koenig, Kenneth Hudnut, Donyelle Davis, Patricia Bright
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Reducing Risk

U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Hazards Program—Assess, forecast, prepare, engage U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Hazards Program—Assess, forecast, prepare, engage

At least 170 volcanoes in 12 States and 2 territories have erupted in the past 12,000 years and have the potential to erupt again. Consequences of eruptions from U.S. volcanoes can extend far beyond the volcano’s immediate area. Many aspects of our daily life are vulnerable to volcano hazards, including air travel, regional power generation and transmission infrastructure, interstate...
Authors
Wendy Stovall, Aleeza M. Wilkins, Charlie Mandeville, Carolyn Driedger
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center

Mauna Loa--history, hazards and risk of living with the world's largest volcano Mauna Loa--history, hazards and risk of living with the world's largest volcano

Mauna Loa on the Island Hawaiʻi is the world’s largest volcano. People residing on its flanks face many hazards that come with living on or near an active volcano, including lava flows, explosive eruptions, volcanic smog, damaging earthquakes, and local tsunami (giant seawaves). The County of Hawaiʻi (Island of Hawaiʻi) is the fastest growing County in the State of Hawaii. Its expanding...
Authors
Frank A. Trusdell
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center

Living with a volcano in your backyard; volcanic hazards at Mount Rainier Living with a volcano in your backyard; volcanic hazards at Mount Rainier

No abstract available.
Authors
J. Walder, C. Driedger
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center
Hazard-ception: Fires are a hazard for monitoring California's hazardous volcanoes

Hazard-ception: Fires are a hazard for monitoring California's hazardous volcanoes

While volcanoes are certainly one of California's most prominent natural hazards, they are by far one of the least common. Seasonal hazards such as...

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Volcano Watch – Lava, Logs, and Loose Cows: The Wild Job of HVO’s Technicians

Volcano Watch – Lava, Logs, and Loose Cows: The Wild Job of HVO’s Technicians

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) monitors volcanic activity across the Hawaiian Islands and American Samoa, helping to ensure public safety...

Read Article
Volcano Watch — Snowshoeing on Kīlauea? High fountain episodes pose new challenges to volcano monitoring

Volcano Watch — Snowshoeing on Kīlauea? High fountain episodes pose new challenges to volcano monitoring

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) maintains a network of nearly 150 monitoring instruments on Kīlauea, which track activity above and below...

Read Article
Volcano Watch — When have lava fountains formed on Kīlauea and what are their hazards?

Volcano Watch — When have lava fountains formed on Kīlauea and what are their hazards?

Kīlauea is in a unique phase of activity in Halemaʻumaʻu, with 12 episodes of dual lava fountains since December 23, 2024. Several past eruptions have...

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How hot is hot when it comes to volcanoes?

How hot is hot when it comes to volcanoes?

We all know that volcanoes are figuratively cool, but sometimes it can be a challenge to convey the concept of just how hot they can get.

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Volcano Watch — Volcano monitoring can be a risky business: how scientists work safely

Volcano Watch — Volcano monitoring can be a risky business: how scientists work safely

Active volcanoes are inherently hazardous places to work. Even when a volcano is quiet, volcanic gases, ground cracks, earthquakes, and uneven...

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Which U.S. volcanoes pose a threat?

Which U.S. volcanoes pose a threat?

USGS Volcanic Threat Assessment updates the 2005 rankings.

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Science for a Risky World: A USGS Plan for Risk Research and Applications – USGS publishes strategic plan for examining risk

Science for a Risky World: A USGS Plan for Risk Research and Applications – USGS publishes strategic plan for examining risk

USGS explores opportunities to advance its capabilities in risk assessment, mitigation, and communication in new strategic plan.

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Kīlauea Volcano Erupts

Kīlauea Volcano Erupts

Today's update for June 21st, 2018 will be the last of the daily updates on this USGS feature story.  We encourage you to keep checking the USGS...

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Ever Vigilant: USGS Marks the 37th Anniversary of Mount St. Helen's Eruption and the 35th Anniversary of the Cascades Volcano Observatory

Ever Vigilant: USGS Marks the 37th Anniversary of Mount St. Helen's Eruption and the 35th Anniversary of the Cascades Volcano Observatory

Today, in 1980, Mount St. Helens unleashed the most devastating eruption in U.S. history. Two years later, USGS founded the Cascades Volcano...

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Monitoring Alaska’s Remote and Restless Bogoslof Volcano

Monitoring Alaska’s Remote and Restless Bogoslof Volcano

Bogoslof volcano, located in the Aleutian Islands about 98 km (61 mi) northwest of Dutch Harbor/Unalaska, is in an active eruption sequence that began...

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Related

Geologist conducting field work at Bezymiany volcano in Kamchatka, Russia

What kind of school training do you need to become a volcanologist? What kind of school training do you need to become a volcanologist?

There are many paths to becoming a volcanologist. Most include a college or graduate school education in a scientific or technical field, but the range of specialties is very large. Training in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, biology, biochemistry, mathematics, statistics, engineering, atmospheric science, remote sensing, and related fields can be applied to the study of volcanoes and the...

What kind of school training do you need to become a volcanologist?

What kind of school training do you need to become a volcanologist?

There are many paths to becoming a volcanologist. Most include a college or graduate school education in a scientific or technical field, but the range of specialties is very large. Training in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, biology, biochemistry, mathematics, statistics, engineering, atmospheric science, remote sensing, and related fields can be applied to the study of volcanoes and the...

Learn More
Measuring water levels at a Summit Springs Canyon well in the Black Rock National Conservation Area, Nev.

Where can I find information on employment with the USGS? Where can I find information on employment with the USGS?

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a Federal science agency in the U.S. Department of the Interior that provides impartial information on the health of our ecosystems and environment, the natural hazards that threaten us, the natural resources we rely on, the impacts of climate and land-use change, and the core science systems that help us provide timely, relevant, and useable...

Where can I find information on employment with the USGS?

Where can I find information on employment with the USGS?

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a Federal science agency in the U.S. Department of the Interior that provides impartial information on the health of our ecosystems and environment, the natural hazards that threaten us, the natural resources we rely on, the impacts of climate and land-use change, and the core science systems that help us provide timely, relevant, and useable...

Learn More
Image: Alaska Volcano Observatory Operations

Why is it important to monitor volcanoes? Why is it important to monitor volcanoes?

There are 161 potentially active volcanoes in the United States. According to a 2018 USGS assessment, 57 volcanoes are a high threat or very high threat to public safety. Many of these volcanoes have erupted in the recent past and will erupt again in the foreseeable future. As populations increase, areas near volcanoes are being developed and aviation routes are increasing. As a result, more...

Why is it important to monitor volcanoes?

Why is it important to monitor volcanoes?

There are 161 potentially active volcanoes in the United States. According to a 2018 USGS assessment, 57 volcanoes are a high threat or very high threat to public safety. Many of these volcanoes have erupted in the recent past and will erupt again in the foreseeable future. As populations increase, areas near volcanoes are being developed and aviation routes are increasing. As a result, more...

Learn More
A repeating loop showing a hammer scooping lava from a flow and dropping it into a bucket.

Lava sampling: Why do we do it? Lava sampling: Why do we do it?

Hot lava samples provide important information about what's going on in a volcano's magma chambers. We know from laboratory experiments that the more magnesium there is in magma, the hotter it is. Chemical analysis, therefore, provides the means not only to determine the crystallization history of lava but also to establish the temperature at which it was erupted. For example, Kilauea's 1997 lavas...

Lava sampling: Why do we do it?

Lava sampling: Why do we do it?

Hot lava samples provide important information about what's going on in a volcano's magma chambers. We know from laboratory experiments that the more magnesium there is in magma, the hotter it is. Chemical analysis, therefore, provides the means not only to determine the crystallization history of lava but also to establish the temperature at which it was erupted. For example, Kilauea's 1997 lavas...

Learn More
High-tech instruments track volcanic gases at Kīlauea Volcano...

How are volcanic gases measured? How are volcanic gases measured?

Instruments to measure sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide can be mounted in aircraft to determine the quantity of gas being emitted on a daily basis. Such instruments can also be used in a ground-based mode. An instrument that detects carbon dioxide can be installed on a volcano and configured to send data continuously via radio to an observatory. Sulfur dioxide in volcanic clouds can also be...

How are volcanic gases measured?

How are volcanic gases measured?

Instruments to measure sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide can be mounted in aircraft to determine the quantity of gas being emitted on a daily basis. Such instruments can also be used in a ground-based mode. An instrument that detects carbon dioxide can be installed on a volcano and configured to send data continuously via radio to an observatory. Sulfur dioxide in volcanic clouds can also be...

Learn More
Image: Augustine Volcano

How can we tell when a volcano will erupt? How can we tell when a volcano will erupt?

Most volcanoes provide warnings before an eruption. Magmatic eruptions involve the rise of magma toward the surface, which normally generates detectable earthquakes. It can also deform the ground surface and cause anomalous heat flow or changes in the temperature and chemistry of the groundwater and spring waters. Steam-blast eruptions, however, can occur with little or no warning as superheated...

How can we tell when a volcano will erupt?

How can we tell when a volcano will erupt?

Most volcanoes provide warnings before an eruption. Magmatic eruptions involve the rise of magma toward the surface, which normally generates detectable earthquakes. It can also deform the ground surface and cause anomalous heat flow or changes in the temperature and chemistry of the groundwater and spring waters. Steam-blast eruptions, however, can occur with little or no warning as superheated...

Learn More
Scientists work gather around a volcano monitoring station
July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea
July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea
Scientists work gather around a volcano monitoring station

July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea

July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea

On July 10, USGS field engineers visited one of the volcanic gas monitoring stations downwind of the summit of Kīlauea, within the closed area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This area has been blanketed with tephra material during recent eruptive episodes within Halemaʻumaʻu. USGS photo by M. Cappos. 

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Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Scientists work gather around a volcano monitoring station

July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea

July 10, 2025 — USGS field engineers service a volcano monitoring station at the summit of Kīlauea

On July 10, USGS field engineers visited one of the volcanic gas monitoring stations downwind of the summit of Kīlauea, within the closed area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This area has been blanketed with tephra material during recent eruptive episodes within Halemaʻumaʻu. USGS photo by M. Cappos. 

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Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Color photograph of scientists at volcanic gas monitoring equipment
January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment
January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment
Color photograph of scientists at volcanic gas monitoring equipment

January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment

January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment

USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists check volcanic gas monitoring equipment located downwind of the erupting vents in Kaluapele, Kīlauea summit caldera. The light-brown eruptive plume from episode 4 of the eruption is visible in the background of the image. USGS photo by B. Lopez. 

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Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Color photograph of scientists at volcanic gas monitoring equipment

January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment

January 15, 2025—HVO scientists check volcano monitoring equipment

USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists check volcanic gas monitoring equipment located downwind of the erupting vents in Kaluapele, Kīlauea summit caldera. The light-brown eruptive plume from episode 4 of the eruption is visible in the background of the image. USGS photo by B. Lopez. 

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Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Color photograph of scientist checking monitoring equipment on volcano
December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment
December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment
Color photograph of scientist checking monitoring equipment on volcano

December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment

December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment

A USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist checks a webcam located on the rim of Kīlauea caldera. The webcam network at the summit of Kīlauea volcano is crucial for monitoring eruptions such as the one that began today, December 23, 2024, in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. USGS image by M. Patrick. 

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Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Color photograph of scientist checking monitoring equipment on volcano

December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment

December 23, 2024 - USGS scientist checks volcano monitoring equipment

A USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist checks a webcam located on the rim of Kīlauea caldera. The webcam network at the summit of Kīlauea volcano is crucial for monitoring eruptions such as the one that began today, December 23, 2024, in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. USGS image by M. Patrick. 

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Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Kīlauea
Image: Taking Lava Samples
Taking Lava Samples
Taking Lava Samples
Image: Taking Lava Samples

Taking Lava Samples

Taking Lava Samples

Geologist taking a sample from a recently formed skylight on the Quarry flow lava tube. Samples collected directly from the lava tube are usually the best samples for chemical analysis.

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Volcano Hazards Program
Image: Taking Lava Samples

Taking Lava Samples

Taking Lava Samples

Geologist taking a sample from a recently formed skylight on the Quarry flow lava tube. Samples collected directly from the lava tube are usually the best samples for chemical analysis.

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Volcano Hazards Program
Image: Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal
Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal
Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal
Image: Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

This image shows an HVO geologist sampling the lava that was seeping out of the interior of the rootless shield. The lava was placed in a bucket of water to quench the sample. The top frame is a normal photograph, while the bottom frame is a thermal image taken within a fraction of a second of the photograph.

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Volcano Hazards Program
Image: Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

Lava Sampling: Thermal and Non-Thermal

This image shows an HVO geologist sampling the lava that was seeping out of the interior of the rootless shield. The lava was placed in a bucket of water to quench the sample. The top frame is a normal photograph, while the bottom frame is a thermal image taken within a fraction of a second of the photograph.

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Volcano Hazards Program
video thumbnail: Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980 video thumbnail: Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980
Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980
video thumbnail: Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

USGS scientists recount their experiences before, during and after the May 18, 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. Loss of their colleague David A. Johnston and 56 others in the eruption cast a pall over one of the most dramatic geologic moments in American history.

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Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
video thumbnail: Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

Mount St. Helens: May 18, 1980

USGS scientists recount their experiences before, during and after the May 18, 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. Loss of their colleague David A. Johnston and 56 others in the eruption cast a pall over one of the most dramatic geologic moments in American history.

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Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
Image: Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.
Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.
Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.
Image: Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Kate Bull using a FLIR camera out the open door of an A-Star helicopter with the Redoubt summit and lava dome visible.

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Volcano Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Image: Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Scientist Captures thermal images of the Redoubt Lava Dome from Helicopter.

Kate Bull using a FLIR camera out the open door of an A-Star helicopter with the Redoubt summit and lava dome visible.

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Volcano Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens
Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens reawakened in late September 2004. Small magnitude earthquakes beneath the 1980-1986 lava dome increased in frequency and size, and a growing welt formed on the southeast margin of the previous lava dome and nearby portions of Crater Glacier.

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Natural Hazards, Volcano Hazards, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing

Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens 2004-2008 Eruption: A Volcano Reawakens

Mount St. Helens reawakened in late September 2004. Small magnitude earthquakes beneath the 1980-1986 lava dome increased in frequency and size, and a growing welt formed on the southeast margin of the previous lava dome and nearby portions of Crater Glacier.

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Natural Hazards, Volcano Hazards, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
Image shows two scientists on the slopes of Mount St. Helens with steam rising around them
Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome
Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome
Image shows two scientists on the slopes of Mount St. Helens with steam rising around them

Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome

Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome

USGS geologists gathered samples by hand from vents on the dome and crater floor. Additionally, sulfur dioxide gas was measured from a specially equipped airplane before, during, and after eruptions to determine "emission rates" for the volcano.

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Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
Image shows two scientists on the slopes of Mount St. Helens with steam rising around them

Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome

Gas Sampling around the Mount St. Helens Dome

USGS geologists gathered samples by hand from vents on the dome and crater floor. Additionally, sulfur dioxide gas was measured from a specially equipped airplane before, during, and after eruptions to determine "emission rates" for the volcano.

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Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Mount St. Helens, Communications and Publishing
Image: ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano
ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano
ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano
Image: ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded student Taryn Lopez (Univ. Alaska-Fairbanks) sampling gas emissions at fumarole next to dome at the summit of Augustine volcano.

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Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Image: ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded Student Sampling Gas at Augustine Volcano

ARRA-funded student Taryn Lopez (Univ. Alaska-Fairbanks) sampling gas emissions at fumarole next to dome at the summit of Augustine volcano.

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Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing

When volcanoes fall down—Catastrophic collapse and debris avalanches When volcanoes fall down—Catastrophic collapse and debris avalanches

Despite their seeming permanence, volcanoes are prone to catastrophic collapse that can affect vast areas in a matter of minutes. Large collapses begin as gigantic landslides that quickly transform to debris avalanches—chaotically tumbling masses of rock debris that can sweep downslope at extremely high velocities, inundating areas far beyond the volcano. Rapid burial by the debris...
Authors
Lee Siebert, Mark Reid, James Vallance, Thomas Pierson
By
Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center

Living with volcano hazards Living with volcano hazards

Volcanic eruptions are among Earth’s most dramatic and powerful agents of change. Ash, mudflows, and lava flows can devastate communities near volcanoes and cause havoc in areas far downwind, downstream, and downslope. Even when a volcano is quiet, steep volcanic slopes can collapse to become landslides, and large rocks can be hurled by powerful steam blasts. Hazardous volcanic...
Authors
Wendy K. Stovall, Carolyn Driedger, Elizabeth Westby, Lisa M. Faust
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center

2018 update to the U.S. Geological Survey national volcanic threat assessment 2018 update to the U.S. Geological Survey national volcanic threat assessment

When erupting, all volcanoes pose a degree of risk to people and infrastructure, however, the risks are not equivalent from one volcano to another because of differences in eruptive style and geographic location. Assessing the relative threats posed by U.S. volcanoes identifies which volcanoes warrant the greatest risk-mitigation efforts by the U.S. Geological Survey and its partners...
Authors
John W. Ewert, Angela K. Diefenbach, David Ramsey
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Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center, Agrigan, Ahyi Seamount, Alamagan, Anatahan, Asuncion, Belknap, Black Butte Crater Lava Field, Black Rock Desert Volcanic Field, Blue Lake Crater, Carrizozo Lava Flow, Cascade Range Weekly Update, Cinnamon Butte, Clear Lake Volcanic Field, Coso Volcanic Field, Crater Lake, Craters of the Moon Volcanic Field, Daikoku Seamount , Davis Lake Volcanic Field, Devils Garden Lava Field, Diamond Craters Volcanic Field, Dotsero Volcanic Center, East Diamante, Esmeralda Bank, Farallon de Pajaros, Fukujin Seamount , Glacier Peak, Guguan, Haleakalā, Hell's Half Acre Lava Field, Hualālai, Indian Heaven Volcanic Field, Jordan Craters Volcanic Field, Kama‘ehuakanaloa, Kasuga 2, Kīlauea, Lassen Volcanic Center, Long Valley Caldera, Mammoth Mountain, Markagunt Plateau Volcanic Field, Maug Islands, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, Medicine Lake, Mono Lake Volcanic Field, Mono-Inyo Craters, Mount Adams, Mount Bachelor, Mount Baker, Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Mount Rainier, Mount Shasta, Mount St. Helens, Newberry, Ofu-Olosega, Pagan, Red Hill-Quemado Volcanic Field, Ruby, Salton Buttes, San Francisco Volcanic Field, Sand Mountain Volcanic Field, Sarigan, Soda Lakes, South Sarigan Seamount, Supply Reef, Ta'u Island, Three Sisters, Tutuila Island, Ubehebe Craters, Uinkaret Volcanic Field, Valles Caldera, Wapi Lava Field, Weekly Update, West Crater Volcanic Field, Yellowstone, Zealandia Bank, Zuni-Bandera Volcanic Field

Science for a risky world—A U.S. Geological Survey plan for risk research and applications Science for a risky world—A U.S. Geological Survey plan for risk research and applications

Executive SummaryNatural hazards—including earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, landslides, hurricanes, droughts, floods, wildfires, geomagnetic storms, and pandemics—can wreak havoc on human communities, the economy, and natural resources for years following an initial event. Hazards can claim lives and cause billions of dollars in damage to homes and infrastructure as well as...
Authors
K. Ludwig, David Ramsey, Nathan Wood, A.B. Pennaz, Jonathan Godt, Nathaniel Plant, Nico Luco, Todd Koenig, Kenneth Hudnut, Donyelle Davis, Patricia Bright
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Reducing Risk

U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Hazards Program—Assess, forecast, prepare, engage U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Hazards Program—Assess, forecast, prepare, engage

At least 170 volcanoes in 12 States and 2 territories have erupted in the past 12,000 years and have the potential to erupt again. Consequences of eruptions from U.S. volcanoes can extend far beyond the volcano’s immediate area. Many aspects of our daily life are vulnerable to volcano hazards, including air travel, regional power generation and transmission infrastructure, interstate...
Authors
Wendy Stovall, Aleeza M. Wilkins, Charlie Mandeville, Carolyn Driedger
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center

Mauna Loa--history, hazards and risk of living with the world's largest volcano Mauna Loa--history, hazards and risk of living with the world's largest volcano

Mauna Loa on the Island Hawaiʻi is the world’s largest volcano. People residing on its flanks face many hazards that come with living on or near an active volcano, including lava flows, explosive eruptions, volcanic smog, damaging earthquakes, and local tsunami (giant seawaves). The County of Hawaiʻi (Island of Hawaiʻi) is the fastest growing County in the State of Hawaii. Its expanding...
Authors
Frank A. Trusdell
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center

Living with a volcano in your backyard; volcanic hazards at Mount Rainier Living with a volcano in your backyard; volcanic hazards at Mount Rainier

No abstract available.
Authors
J. Walder, C. Driedger
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Volcano Hazards Program, Volcano Science Center
Hazard-ception: Fires are a hazard for monitoring California's hazardous volcanoes

Hazard-ception: Fires are a hazard for monitoring California's hazardous volcanoes

While volcanoes are certainly one of California's most prominent natural hazards, they are by far one of the least common. Seasonal hazards such as...

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Volcano Watch – Lava, Logs, and Loose Cows: The Wild Job of HVO’s Technicians

Volcano Watch – Lava, Logs, and Loose Cows: The Wild Job of HVO’s Technicians

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) monitors volcanic activity across the Hawaiian Islands and American Samoa, helping to ensure public safety...

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Volcano Watch — Snowshoeing on Kīlauea? High fountain episodes pose new challenges to volcano monitoring

Volcano Watch — Snowshoeing on Kīlauea? High fountain episodes pose new challenges to volcano monitoring

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) maintains a network of nearly 150 monitoring instruments on Kīlauea, which track activity above and below...

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Volcano Watch — When have lava fountains formed on Kīlauea and what are their hazards?

Volcano Watch — When have lava fountains formed on Kīlauea and what are their hazards?

Kīlauea is in a unique phase of activity in Halemaʻumaʻu, with 12 episodes of dual lava fountains since December 23, 2024. Several past eruptions have...

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How hot is hot when it comes to volcanoes?

How hot is hot when it comes to volcanoes?

We all know that volcanoes are figuratively cool, but sometimes it can be a challenge to convey the concept of just how hot they can get.

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Volcano Watch — Volcano monitoring can be a risky business: how scientists work safely

Volcano Watch — Volcano monitoring can be a risky business: how scientists work safely

Active volcanoes are inherently hazardous places to work. Even when a volcano is quiet, volcanic gases, ground cracks, earthquakes, and uneven...

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Which U.S. volcanoes pose a threat?

Which U.S. volcanoes pose a threat?

USGS Volcanic Threat Assessment updates the 2005 rankings.

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Science for a Risky World: A USGS Plan for Risk Research and Applications – USGS publishes strategic plan for examining risk

Science for a Risky World: A USGS Plan for Risk Research and Applications – USGS publishes strategic plan for examining risk

USGS explores opportunities to advance its capabilities in risk assessment, mitigation, and communication in new strategic plan.

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Kīlauea Volcano Erupts

Kīlauea Volcano Erupts

Today's update for June 21st, 2018 will be the last of the daily updates on this USGS feature story.  We encourage you to keep checking the USGS...

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Ever Vigilant: USGS Marks the 37th Anniversary of Mount St. Helen's Eruption and the 35th Anniversary of the Cascades Volcano Observatory

Ever Vigilant: USGS Marks the 37th Anniversary of Mount St. Helen's Eruption and the 35th Anniversary of the Cascades Volcano Observatory

Today, in 1980, Mount St. Helens unleashed the most devastating eruption in U.S. history. Two years later, USGS founded the Cascades Volcano...

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Monitoring Alaska’s Remote and Restless Bogoslof Volcano

Monitoring Alaska’s Remote and Restless Bogoslof Volcano

Bogoslof volcano, located in the Aleutian Islands about 98 km (61 mi) northwest of Dutch Harbor/Unalaska, is in an active eruption sequence that began...

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Updated Date: November 25, 2025
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