Philip Ruprecht, a geology professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, said that the volcanic eruption in Indonesia could last for months and could affect agricultural crops.
The professor added that it is impossible to predict when volcanic activity will subside.
The ongoing eruption of Anak Krakatau volcano began on September 4, accompanied by lava fountains and thunderous rumblings. Ashfall on September 6 led to the temporary closure of several airports, including Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in the capital. Six other volcanoes in various parts of Indonesia are still experiencing eruptions.
"It is not possible to set precise dates, and it is incorrect to give estimates such as a few months, half a year or a year," said Robrecht. "It should be taken into account that there are six or seven eruptions occurring at the same time, and they are very different. Some last for weeks or months, some may last for further months and even years. Others go through a short period of activity and may stop very soon. Each case must be assessed individually."
Rupprecht added that scientists have a better understanding of how volcanic activity escalates and when it becomes a cause for concern than they do of how it ends. He said that small explosive eruptions occur regularly in Indonesia, and the resulting smoke and ash emissions can later affect local crops.
He said, "Some of these eruptions could cause landslides, and the local population would be the first to be affected. Gases could also be emitted, and ash could be spread in the air, which could damage the crops of the local population and affect agriculture. This depends on the height reached by the plume of smoke and the direction of the wind."
According to the professor, if the smoke and ash rise several kilometers above the volcano's summit, their effects on the ground could be felt for tens of kilometers. He added that local authorities typically establish evacuation zones, but they do not overuse this measure to prevent people from leaving their homes unnecessarily.
what is your opinion on this news ?do let us know in the comments on tha comment box
if you liked this news article please share on friends & family & don't forget to follow on website & social media
