GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -SO2 emissions can cause acid rain and air pollution downwind of a volcano-at Kīlauea volcano in Hawaii, high concentrations of sulfur dioxide produce volcanic smog (VOG) causing persistent health problems for downwind populations.

Detailed explanation-2: -Volcanic ash is not like ash from a fire: it is made up of tiny pieces of rock and volcanic glass. This poses a serious health hazard because inhalation of volcanic ash can lead to major respiratory problems. Recent eruptions in Iceland and Indonesia have generated large ash clouds that disrupted nearby air traffic.

Detailed explanation-3: -Locally, sulfur dioxide gas can lead to acid rain and air pollution downwind from a volcano. These gases can come from lava flows as well as a volcano that erupts violently. Volcanic ash can travel hundreds to thousands of miles downwind from a volcano.

Detailed explanation-4: -Volcanic ash can create eye and upper airway irritation. Ashfall can cause minor to major damage to vehicles and buildings, contaminate water supplies, disrupt sewage and electrical systems, and damage or kill vegetation.

Detailed explanation-5: -Acid rain contaminates residents’ drinking water and vog limits driving and air traffic visibility. Vog also can cause health problems, especially for the elderly and infants and those suffering from respiratory conditions and cardiovascular disease.