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.
- Ashfall 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. Remain calm if the sky is darkened during an ashfall event.
- Heavy ashfall can clog watercourses, sewage plants, and various machinery.
- Heavy ashfall can cause structural damage to buildings, but most Alaska volcanos do not cause have heavy ashfall.
- Ash is extremely slippery, hampering both driving and walking.
Preparing for Volcanic Ash:
- Learn about volcanic ash.
- Make an emergency 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.
- Listen to local officials for important information.
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
- It is likely unesscessary to sweep ash off of roofs. Always exercise caution when working on a roof.