Scientists warn that a massive volcanic eruption could have devastating consequences for the modern world. The last such eruption, Mount Tambora in 1815, plunged the world into chaos, triggering widespread famine and death. Now, over 200 years later, experts fear another colossal eruption is imminent, threatening entire cities, global food supplies, and economies.
The Indonesian volcano’s 1815 eruption was considered the most powerful in recorded history, cooling global temperatures by at least 1 degree Celsius. This “year without a summer” saw catastrophic crop failures, food shortages, and famine. While Mount Tambora was not unique in its destructive potential, scientists believe massive eruptions occur roughly once every 600 years.
Today, the planet is warmer, more interconnected, and densely populated, amplifying the potential impact of such an event. Markus Stoffel, a climate professor, warns that humanity lacks preparedness for the chaos it would unleash. A massive eruption could trigger immediate destruction, disrupt global food supplies, cause economic collapse, displace millions, and have devastating effects on the climate.
Volcanoes release gases during eruptions, including sulfur dioxide, which can cool the planet. However, the cooling effect is not uniform and often exacerbates existing vulnerabilities. In the modern era, a massive eruption would interact with a planet already altered by human activity, amplifying the potential devastation.
The impact could be worse today due to accelerated atmospheric circulation, ocean dynamics, and increased eruption frequency. Michael Rampino highlights the dangers of this interplay: “It’s a more unstable world now. The effects might be even worse than we saw back in 1815.”
While massive eruptions cannot be prevented, there are steps that can mitigate their impact through enhanced monitoring, disaster planning, and international cooperation. Stoffel stresses the urgency of preparation: “We’re just at the beginning of getting an idea of what could happen.”
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2024/12/scientists-volcanic-eruption-wipe-cities