Volcanic Safety Advice for Tourists
Volcanoes offer spectacular sights—and real hazards. Use this guide to understand activity levels and how to stay safe. Always follow local authorities and official guidance. Below you’ll find advice tailored to small, medium, and large eruptions.
Thanks to Iceland Search and Rescue for producing this informative guide. Visit their website or Make a donation. Small Eruptions — “Accessible but Active”
Examples: Hawaii, Grindavík, Fagradalsfjall, Stromboli
Situation: The eruption is localized and relatively stable. Approved viewing areas may be open; gases, tephra (rock fragments), and slow-moving lava flows still pose real dangers.
What Tourists Can Do
- Visit only officially approved viewing sites and stay on marked trails.
- Follow instructions from rangers, rescue services, or police.
- Keep a safe distance—ground near lava/fissures can collapse or emit toxic gases.
- Check daily air quality and wind direction; gases can shift suddenly.
- Bring eye protection and N95 (or equivalent) masks if there’s visible ash.
- Avoid drone flying unless officially permitted.
- Respect closures and restricted zones; conditions change quickly.
What to Avoid
- Do not walk on new lava—thin crust may conceal extreme heat.
- Do not enter closed valleys or canyons—gas can accumulate.
- Do not camp, park, or rest in low areas near the site.
Medium Eruptions — “Observe from Afar”
Examples: Etna, Merapi, or a large Reykjanes event visible from surrounding towns
Situation: Significant lava fountains, strong gas emissions, or widespread tephra fall. Authorities typically restrict access for several kilometers from the site.
What Tourists Can Do
- View only from safe observation points designated by civil protection.
- Check official updates before traveling to the area.
- Keep vehicles fueled and ready in case of evacuation instructions.
- Carry basics: water, snacks, flashlight, first-aid kit.
- Protect electronics/cameras from ash with covers or sealable bags.
What to Avoid
- Do not enter restricted areas even if others do.
- Avoid outdoor activity during heavy ashfall—stay indoors, windows closed.
- Do not drive during ashfall; visibility, traction, and engines can be compromised.
Large Eruptions — “Evacuate Immediately”
Examples: Mount St. Helens (1980), Eyjafjallajökull (2010), major caldera/explosive events
Situation: Immediate threats from ash clouds, pyroclastic flows, or lahars. Evacuations and airport/road closures are likely.
What Tourists Must Do
- Evacuate immediately if ordered—do not delay for photos or packing.
- Follow instructions from emergency services without hesitation.
- Enable emergency alerts on your phone or radio.
- Bring essentials only: ID, medications, warm clothing, water, chargers.
- Rely on official channels—avoid rumors and unverified social posts.
- Once safe, inform family or your embassy of your location.
What to Avoid
- Do not enter closed areas for any reason.
- Do not drive toward the eruption to sightsee.
- Avoid rivers and valleys that can become mudflow routes.
- Do not rely on navigation apps for closures; routes may be blocked or destroyed.
General Reminder
Volcanic landscapes change quickly. Eruptions can escalate with little warning. Always:
- Register with local visitor safety programs (e.g., SafeTravel.is in Iceland).
- Monitor official emergency channels.
- Respect the power of nature—your safety is your responsibility.
Thanks to Iceland Search and Rescue for producing this informative guide. Visit their website or Make a donation. Offering the next closest experience to actually being there - That's the goal of AfarTV.
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