A Detailed Look at the Volcanic Hazard Zones

13.APR.07

Hazard Zone 1 (Red Zone) – Very High Hazard

This includes all areas expected to experience maximum damage in the short term, and is the zone where all hazardous events have their greatest influence. It is defined by the zone of expected total destruction from pyroclastic flows, surges and mudflows and by the zone of maximum expected damage from all projectiles. This zone is likely to experience more than 30 cm of ash. During the course of an eruption this zone would be unsuitable for human habitation.{{more}}

Hazard Zone 2 (Orange Zone) – High Hazard

This includes all areas of moderate pyroclastic flow and surge hazard, areas within the 5km projectile zone, and areas likely to experience between 10 and 30 cm of ash fall. The potential for damage may be similar as zone 1, but the greater distance of villages from the volcanic centre would reduce the likely impact. These areas will be affected in a similar manner as Zone 1 during large scale eruptions.

Hazard Zone 3 (Yellow Zone) – Moderate Hazard

This zone will be free from the effects of flows and surges but will be affected by 5 to 10 cm thick ash falls, minor earthquakes and lightning strikes. This zone will experience significantly less physical damage than Zones 1 and 2.

Hazard Zone 4 (Green Zone) – Low Hazard

This zone includes areas likely to be relatively safe from hazardous events, except for minor ash fall of less than 5cm. crop damage and disruption of water supply due to ash fall will be the main effect but other physical damage will be minimal.

The map only shows hazard zone on land. However, lahars and pyroclastic falls, flows and surges will also impact areas offshore to varying degrees, and as such, the hazard zones must be envisaged as extending some distance offshore.

The La Soufriere Volcano is the only live volcano on the island of St. Vincent. It has the potential to undergo volcanic activity in the future.