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Volcanic Ash Preparedness

​​There are more than 50 active volcanoes in Alaska​​

The Alaska Peninsula, Kodiak Island, Kenai Peninsula, and Cook Inlet are the most likely areas in the state to experience ash fall from a volcanic eruption.  Ash may be carried some distance from an explosive eruption. 

Effects of Volcanic Ash:

  • Ash particles are very sharp
  • Ash fall causes air quality issues and can damage the lungs of small infants, or those already suffering from respiratory illnesses. 
  • An ash cloud may reduce sunlight. 
  • Heavy ash fall can clog watercourses, sewage plants, and various machinery. 
  • Ash is heavy, especially when wet; a heavy ash fall can cause structural damage to buildings. 
  • Ash is extremely slippery, hampering both driving and walking.
Preparing for Volcanic Ash:
  • Learn about Volcanic Ash 
  • ​Make a plan
  • Make an Emergency Kit, include items specific to volcanic ashfall such as:
    • goggles
    • N95 dust mask 
    • gloves
During Volcanic Ash event
  • If possible, stay indoors until local health officials advise it is safe to go outside.​
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
  • Use goggles to protect your eyes
  • Wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses
  • Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to assist in breathing.
  • If possible, do not drive, ash is very hard on vehicles
  • Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible
  • Keep pets indoors as much as possible, brush or vacuum them when coming back inside
After a Volcanic Ash Event:
  • Check on neighbors 
  • When outside, protect yourself from the fine, glassy particles of volcanic ash
    • Cover your mouth and nose.
    • Wear goggles to protect your eyes.
    • Wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses.
    • Keep skin covered to avoid irritation from contact with ash
  • Sweep ash off of roofs. Do not wash off. Ashfall is very heavy and can cause buildings to collapse, especially if it is wet. Exercise great caution when working on a roof.​

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