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Appendix C: Volcano

Children’s Environmental Health Post-Disaster Assessment Toolkit 2.0

Volcanic eruptions present numerous environmental health hazards. Children's unique vulnerability due to their developing respiratory systems, higher exposure risks, and greater susceptibility to pollutants makes them especially at risk for a range of health issues in the aftermath.

Common Environmental Hazards

Environmental Health HazardHow a volcano might affect children's health
Air: Indoor Air Quality 
 		Volcanic eruptions release ash and gases that can infiltrate homes, schools, and other buildings, potentially leading to indoor air pollution. Children are more vulnerable to respiratory issues from inhaling volcanic ash or toxic gases, such as sulfur dioxide, as their lungs are still developing, and they have faster breathing rates than adults.
Air: Outdoor Air Quality 
 		Volcanic ash clouds and gases can significantly degrade outdoor air quality, leading to respiratory problems for anyone exposed. Children's developing respiratory systems, higher breathing rates, and smaller airways make them more susceptible to the harmful effects of airborne ash, particulate matter, and gases like sulfur dioxide, which can cause asthma, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
Chemical: Asbestos 
 		Volcanic ash may contain mineral particles like asbestos, which could be released into the air after an eruption. Due to their higher inhalation rates and smaller lung capacity, children are more susceptible to inhaling these particles, which can lead to long-term respiratory issues, lung diseases, or cancer later in life.
Chemical: Combustion Byproducts 
 		Volcanic eruptions can trigger fires in nearby areas, resulting in the release of combustion byproducts such as carbon monoxide and other toxic gases. Children are more at risk from these gases, which can cause poisoning, respiratory distress, and neurological issues due to their developing bodies and higher vulnerability to air pollutants.
Chemical: Industrial Chemicals 
 		In areas with nearby industrial facilities, volcanic eruptions may damage infrastructure, leading to the release of hazardous chemicals. Children are particularly vulnerable to exposure to these chemicals, which can cause poisoning, respiratory issues, and long-term developmental harm.
Chemical: Lead & Heavy Metals 
 		Volcanic eruptions can release heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, and lead, which may become part of the ash cloud or contaminate surrounding areas. Children are more likely to absorb these metals, leading to developmental delays, neurological issues, and other health complications.
Chemical: Pesticides & Herbicides 
 		In agricultural areas, volcanic ash may mix with pesticides or herbicides, creating a toxic environment for children. Children are more susceptible to pesticide poisoning, which can lead to neurological and developmental issues, as well as acute illness from direct exposure.
Debris & Physical Hazards 
 		Volcanic eruptions often generate significant amounts of debris, including large rocks, ash, and mudflows (lahars). Children, especially those who are playing or wandering in affected areas, are at greater risk for injuries from falling debris, flying rocks, or being trapped in landslides or mudflows.
Extreme Cold 
 		While volcanic eruptions often occur in warm climates, ash clouds can block sunlight, leading to sudden cooling in the affected areas. Children may be more vulnerable to cold-related illnesses like hypothermia or frostbite if they are exposed to prolonged cold temperatures without proper clothing or shelter.
Extreme Heat 
 		If the volcanic eruption damages power lines or infrastructure in warm climates, children may be at risk due to disrupted cooling systems. Children are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration, due to their smaller bodies and higher metabolic rates.
Pest Management 
 		Volcanic eruptions can displace pests, including insects and rodents, which may seek shelter in homes and shelters. Children are more vulnerable to diseases carried by pests, such as leptospirosis from rodents or vector-borne diseases like Zika or West Nile virus, which may increase in the aftermath of a volcanic eruption.
Water: Damage & Mold 
 		Volcanic ash can damage water systems, leading to contamination of water sources. Children are more susceptible to waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and dysentery from consuming contaminated water, which may result from the destruction of water infrastructure or contaminated floodwaters.
Water: Drinking Water Safety 
 		The release of volcanic ash can also contaminate water supplies, making them unsafe for drinking. Children are at higher risk of gastrointestinal illnesses from drinking contaminated water, as their immune systems are still developing, and they may drink more water relative to their size.
Water: Sewage & Wastewater Contaminants 
 		In volcanic areas where the eruption disrupts sewage systems, the release of untreated sewage into water sources can occur. Children are more vulnerable to waterborne diseases like E. coli or dysentery from exposure to sewage-contaminated water.

Educational Resources

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