What is "vog"? How is it related to sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions?
Vog (volcanic smog) is a visible haze comprised of gas and an aerosol of tiny particles and acidic droplets created when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and other gases emitted from a volcano chemically interact with sunlight and atmospheric oxygen, moisture, and dust. Volcanic gas emissions can pose environmental and health risks to nearby communities.
Vog is a hazard that's associated with Hawaiian volcanoes in particular. See the Hawaii Interagency Vog Information Dashboard for detailed information and current conditions.
Learn more:
- Volcanic gases can be harmful to health, vegetation, and infrastructure
- Volcanic gas hazards from Kilauea Volcano
- USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory FAQs about volcanic smog (vog)