News Excerpt:
The eruption at Mount Canlaon in the Philippines led to a cold lava flood in the street and river downstream.
What is cold Lava?
- Cold lava is a mixture of volcanic material and pebbles that has cooled. This phenomenon occurs when rain mixes with volcanic materials like ash, sand, and pebbles. It flows like wet concrete and can move swiftly.
- It can have either smooth, glassy textures or rough, jagged textures.
- Its temperature ranges from 0°C to 100°C, but typically stays below 50°C, according to several academic reports.
- In contrast, hot lava has a temperature range of 700 to 1,200°C.
- The phrase cold lava is also known as "lahar" in Indonesian and Tagalog.
Risks associated with Cold Lava:
- Flash Flood: Cold lava can travel significant distances from a volcano's summit, accumulating debris and sediment as it moves, which rapidly increases its volume and destructive potential. According to the United States Geological, it has the ability to crush and bury objects in its path, potentially making it more destructive than conventional lava flows.
- At least 41 people were killed after flash floods and "cold lava" flowed from Mount Merapi, the most active volcano on the western Indonesian island of Sumatra.
- Physical Injury: Cold lava formations can have sharp edges, making them hazardous to walk on or climb.
- Toxic Gases: Some volcanic rocks can release toxic gases if disturbed, which can be harmful to health if inhaled in large quantities.
- Falling Debris: Cold lava formations can be unstable and may collapse, causing falling rocks and debris.
- Chemical Burns: Certain types of volcanic rock, like obsidian, can have sharp edges that can cause cuts or abrasions. Additionally, contact with certain chemicals in volcanic rock can cause skin irritation.
- Environmental Hazards: Cold lava can disrupt ecosystems and cause changes in soil composition, affecting vegetation and wildlife.
