Preventive Measures Against a Possible Volcanic Eruption
by rodrigo sanchez
Should there be an eruption, it is essential to be prepared for ash clouds that could affect Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley and Denali National Park. It has been recorded that ash particles can be the size of grains of sand, making them harmful to vehicle paint, dangerous to breathing, and dense enough to significantly reduce visibility on roads and in the air.
In 1992, an eruption of Mount Spurr forced Ted Stevens International Airport to close for 20 hours, as ash darkened the sky in broad daylight. Likewise, an earlier eruption in 1953 produced clouds of ash that reached 70,000 feet and covered Anchorage with a quarter of an inch of ash.
Given this background, it is crucial to take preparedness measures. First, make sure you have an emergency kit with at least two weeks’ worth of non-perishable food, 1.5 gallons of water per person per day, a first aid kit, and necessary medications.
To protect yourself from ash, have plenty of N95 masks, as they have been shown to be the most effective at maintaining an airtight seal. Stay indoors and informed through the National Weather Service and the Alaska Volcanic Observatory. Also, cover ventilation systems with plastic sheeting and turn off any fans that may bring contaminated air inside.
Finally, it is recommended to avoid driving after an ash fall, as the particles can clog air filters and reduce the life of the engine oil, causing damage if not properly maintained. Have replacement air filters ready to substitute contaminated ones.
It is also important to remember that volcanic ash contains glass particles, pulverized rock, and minerals, which can cause abrasion on surfaces. To clean properly, moisten brooms and prevent ash from entering your home by frequently cleaning your clothes and shoes.
These are just a few of the steps you can take to prepare for an impending eruption. Don’t forget that being Alaskan means knowing how to adapt to difficult situations and move forward with resilience. If the population has withstood cruel winters and earthquakes of more than 7.0 magnitude, there is no doubt that we will also be able to face an ashfall.
