No, don't roast marshmallows at the Hawaii volcano: USGS

A scientist from the US Geological Survey examines a fissure from the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii
A scientist from the US Geological Survey examines a fissure from the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii

Someone actually asked the US Geological Survey if it is OK to roast marshmallows over volcanic lava.

And the USGS actually took the time to answer.

The query came on Twitter and with a caveat—"assuming you had a long enough stick."

"Erm... we're going to have to say no, that's not safe. (Please don't try!)," the USGS said.

Volcanic vents, the fissures in the ground from which lava flows onto the earth's surface, also release large amounts of gases.

The fumes—some of which smell like rotten eggs—would spoil the sweet candy's flavor, the USGS cautioned.

The comment was among a flood of public service announcements Wednesday about the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii, which has been in eruption since May 3 on the Big Island.

So far it has destroyed 71 homes and forced the evacuation of around 2,000 people.

© 2018 AFP

Citation: No, don't roast marshmallows at the Hawaii volcano: USGS (2018, May 30) retrieved 22 June 2024 from https://phys.org/news/2018-05-dont-roast-marshmallows-hawaii-volcano.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.

Explore further

Amount of ash in plume above Hawaii volcano decreases

45 shares

Feedback to editors