Evidence of a supervolcano budging and threatening to erupt has been lurking beneath the surface for thousands of years, and yet no one has pieced together the potential calamities that could follow if it ever decided to wholly awaken. For that reason, understanding and preparing for the outcomes of a supervolcano is a pressing matter, and one worth exploring.
A supervolcano is a vulcanological term defining a volcano with a volcanic explosivity index (VEI) of 8 or more. It is a volcano that is truly capable of producing vast amounts of magma and resulting explosions which are tremendous enough to cause cataclysmic destruction.
The Yellowstone Caldera is a prime example of a supervolcano. Located in the Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, this vast spot of land measures 55 by 72 miles and has been the focus of study for a long time due to its current and potential effects on the surrounding ecosystem. It is theorized that the caldera has awoken 3 times in the last 2 million years, each of its eruptions having drastically reshaped the area’s landscape and killed off incredible amounts of wildlife in the process. In recent decades, it has shown worrisome signs and symptoms commonly seen with impending eruptions, such as an increase in earthquake activity and swelling ground levels.
Geologists are quick to remind that although a supervolcano eruption is a truly massive event, such an occurrence is not necessarily guaranteed. That being said, it is a most viable threat and one which warrants everyone’s attention and due diligence. To better equip oneself in the eventuality of a supervolcano eruption, one must determine what to expect and how to be best prepared.
In the event of a supervolcano, some of the outcomes that must be taken into account are the amount of ash that will be released into the atmosphere, and the amount of pyroclastic flow that can result in the destruction of anything in its path. Additionally, the emissions released from the caldera can also had an effect on the air, and soil quality, leading to significant disruption to animal and plant life worldwide as well as the mind-boggling destruction of entire cities should the situation call for it.
That being said, it is still important for everyone to be prepared in the unfortunate case that a supervolcano finally decides to make its move. Stocking up on household supplies and necessary items for the journey ahead of time, learning how to filters gases and smoke, listening to requests given by geographical scientists, gathering up the necessary materials to produce a gas mask, and reinforcing homes against possible lava and pyroclastic flow are some of the preemptive measures that can be taken.
Ultimately, the only thing that one can do if faced with such a calamitous event is to stay prepared and aware of developments occurring around this supervolcano, as well as to remain alert and ready to take up action in the face of a catastrophe. The dangers of a supervolcano eruption are something to be taken with the utmost seriousness.