Mention the global occurrence of volcanic eruptions in 2021 and their impact on the regional environment. (150 words) [2021]
A volcanic eruption is the release of molten rock, ash, and gases from a volcano’s magma chamber through a vent or fissure in the Earth’s crust.
In 2021, multiple volcanic eruptions took place globally, impacting the nearby environment in various ways. Some significant events include:
- Fagradalsfjall, Iceland (March 2021): This strombolian and vulcanian eruption had a volcanic explosivity index of 2, resulting in a moderate cloud column height and a huge ejecta volume.
- Pacaya, Guatemala (March 2021): The eruption prompted evacuations, ashfall affecting crops and air quality, and lava flows damaging infrastructure.
- La Soufrière, St. Vincent and the Grenadines (April 2021): The eruption caused evacuations, ashfall on nearby islands, and disruptions to agriculture and water supplies.
- Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of Congo (May 2021): The eruption led to the destruction of homes by lava flows, displacement of people, and concerns about air quality and potential acid rain.
- Cumbre Vieja, La Palma, Canary Islands (September 2021): The eruption resulted in evacuations, destruction of homes and infrastructure, and concerns about air quality and volcanic gases.
- Semeru, Indonesia (December 2021): The eruption caused fatalities, displacement of people, and damage to infrastructure and agriculture due to ashfall and pyroclastic flows.
These eruptions affected the regional environment through ashfall, lava flows, and volcanic gas release.
- Ashfall can damage crops, contaminate water sources, and affect air quality, while lava flows can destroy infrastructure and alter landscapes.
- Volcanic gases, such as sulfur dioxide, can contribute to air pollution and acid rain, posing risks to human health and the environment.
In summary, 2021’s volcanic eruptions significantly impacted the regional environment, affecting agriculture, infrastructure, and air quality. Monitoring and understanding these events are crucial for mitigating their effects and improving disaster preparedness.
