Volcanic eruption abroad
During a volcanic eruption, the magma chamber of a volcano empties, and the volcano spews lava and fluids to the surface. There are different types of eruption, with varying intensity and effects. Depending on the duration and force, an eruption is assigned a score from 1 to 8 according to the Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI).
There are no active volcanoes in Belgium. There are around 1,500 of them worldwide. On average, around 50 volcanic eruptions occur around the world every year. A major volcanic eruption can also have negative consequences in Belgium.
What can you do?
A volcanic eruption abroad has a major impact on air traffic above all. Volcanic ash is dangerous for aircraft, as it can cause engines to stall. Do you have an upcoming flight? Follow the advice of the airport or your airline.
Impact and probability
The figures relating to probability and impact describe a considerable volcanic eruption. The BNRA theoretically describes such a scenario as follows:
- A volcanic eruption occurs in Europe, with maximum intensity IEV-4.
- It erupts during the spring or autumn holidays.
- Clouds of volcanic ash spread across Western Europe for less than a week.
How should you interpret these results?
Within the BNRA, experts assessed three scenarios for each risk: considerable, major or extreme. On each page, you will find the results of the scenario with the highest score based on the combination of likelihood and impact. This does not mean that this scenario will occur or is the most likely. Read more here about how to correctly interpret the results.
Probability
Weak
Human impact
No impact
Societal impact
Weak
Environmental impact
No impact
Financial impact
Weak
What do the authorities do?
The Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy (IASB) uses satellite data to detect natural atmospheric hazards (such as volcanic ash) and inform the aviation industry:
- The SACS natural hazard warning system
- Support to Aviation Control Service (SACS) (website for experts)
In the event of a volcanic eruption, the IASB monitors observations of volcanic gases and assesses volcanic activity and the evolution of the ash plume in the atmosphere, as was the case for the Cumbre Vieja eruption in 2021 in the Canary Islands.