Volcano Mitigation

Since 1700, at least 41 volcanoes in Alaska have erupted, some of these as many as 25 times!

Heavy ashfall may reduce sunlight, causing a sudden demand and possibly brownouts of electrical power. Ash can clog water systems, sewage plants, and all kinds of machinery. Fine ash is extremely slippery, hampering driving and walking. Ash can also damage the lungs of small infants, elderly, and those having respiratory problems.

Volcano Planning

• Alaska Interagency Operating Plan for Volcanic Ash Episodes

Volcano Preparedness Information

• Ash Alert!
• What to do if a Volcano Erupts
• Volcano Fact Sheet (FEMA)
• Protecting Children from Volcanic Ash Related Health Hazards
• Ash Particles and Home Cleanup Problems
• Driving and Vehicle Maintenance in Heavy Ash
• Electric/Electronic Equipment Protection - Commercial and Major Systems

What can I do today?

• DevelopYour Disaster Supply Kit andYour Family Disaster Plan.
• Have extra air and oil filters for your car on hand. After an ashfall, car filters sell out quickly.
• Have NIOSH approved dust respirators (coded TC-21C-XXX or N-95) for all members of your family. Make sure they are the appropriate size for children. Breathing ash can be dangerous for humans and pets.

Additional Volcano Links:

• Alaska Volcano Observatory.
• Volcano World - This is a great educational site for K-12.
• Volcanic Ash - Ash effects and preparedness.
• National Weather Service - Ash fall warnings and forecasts of ash clouds.
• USGS Geological Information - Information on volcanoes and earthquakes.
• Mitigation Reference Link Page - see DHS&EM complete list of mitigation links here.
• Department of Health and Social Services - Health effects associated with volcanic eruptions.

If you have questions about mitigation, e-mail Alaska's Hazard Mitigation Officer, Ann Gravier.