An eruption cloud is a transient, three-dimensional mass of gas, ash, and entrained ambient air generated above a volcanic vent during explosive activity, characterized by vigorous convective ascent and turbulent mixing. It typically develops when magma fragmentation produces pyroclasts and volatiles at high mass flux, driving a buoyant column that can transition from a jet-dominated region near the vent to a convective plume and, at neutral buoyancy, an umbrella region spreading laterally. Eruption clouds exhibit complex microphysical processes, including ash aggregation, ice formation, and electrostatic charging, and they play a central role in tephra dispersal, atmospheric loading of volcanic aerosols, and associated hazards to aviation and climate.
Guatemalan authorities said Thursday they were evacuating more than 500 people after Central America's most active volcano spewed gas and ash.
Environment
Jun 6, 2025
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A huge plume of ash, gas and rock spewed forth on Monday from Italy's Mount Etna as authorities warned people to steer clear of Europe's largest active volcano.
Environment
Jun 2, 2025
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A restive volcano in central Philippines briefly erupted Tuesday, spewing a 4.5-kilometer (2.8-mile) ash plume and debris into the sky as its rumblings were heard nearby.
Environment
May 13, 2025
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Volcanoes inspire awe with spectacular eruptions and incandescent rivers of lava, but often their deadliest hazard is what quietly falls from the sky.
Earth Sciences
Apr 15, 2025
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A volcano in southwestern Iceland that has erupted repeatedly for more than a year again belched lava and smoke into the air on Tuesday, just hours after authorities evacuated the few remaining residents of a nearby fishing ...
Environment
Apr 1, 2025
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The Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano in south-central Indonesia erupted three times into Friday, sending an ash column 8,000 meters (26,000 feet) high and prompting authorities to expand the danger zone around the volcano.
Environment
Mar 21, 2025
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