Volcán de Fuego 2018 Eruption: Physical Effects

Case Studies of Volcanic Eruptions

In this course, Professor Mattew Watson (University of Bristol) talks to us about some recent volcanic eruptions and their effects on local communities. We begin by (i) looking at the physical; and (ii) social effects of the 2018 eruption of Volcán de Fuego in Guatemala; before (iii) moving onto La Palma, understanding its physical geography; and (iv) social effects of the eruption; and then (v) Mt Nyiragongo’s eruption in 2021 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; before finally (vi) comparing and contrasting these three case studies.

Volcán de Fuego 2018 Eruption: Physical Effects

In this lecture, we begin our study of recent volcanic eruptions by focusing on the June 3rd eruption of Volcán de Fuego in Guatemala. We delve into the challenges of predicting and managing volcanic disasters, highlighting the devastating impact of Fuego’s eruption, resulting in significant loss of life in nearby communities. We provide insight into the geological and environmental factors contributing to these events, offering a deeper understanding of volcanoes’ behaviour and the difficulties in mitigating their effects.