Smithsonian Breakdown
EyjafjallajokullThis volcano cause the most recently noted eruption that had global effects both socially and economically. This eruption took place in 2010.
KatlaKatla is overdue for an eruption. If Katla were to generate an ash plume, effects could be similar to those of the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajokull.
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Geology: The case of IcelandIceland is unique in that it is located along a geologic rift as well as over a hot spot. The split occurring here is that between the North American Plate and the Eurasian plate (as shown below).
What would an eruption look like?Eruptions often begin with fissure vents and later evolve to one singular vent.
Most volcanos in Iceland have ice near the vent. The combination of this ice and the hot magma creates an abundance of ash. Phreatomagmatic eruption = ash!!! Even a moderate eruption could cause an ash cloud that would interfere with European airspace. This is critical in terms of economics. |