How Volcanic Eruptions Damage Roads and Land: The Hidden Dangers Beneath Us
Volcanic eruptions do not only affect the sky with ash clouds and fire — they also silently weaken the land beneath our feet. Even countries without active volcanoes can face serious consequences when eruptions occur nearby, especially if their infrastructure is not built to withstand such extreme natural forces. Two of the most damaging underground effects are ground shaking and ground heating, both of which can destroy roads, land, and essential systems. 1. Ground Shaking: The Silent Destroyer Beneath the Surface Before and during a volcanic eruption, molten rock (magma) moves violently through underground chambers. This movement creates volcanic earthquakes, which often come without warning. Unlike regular earthquakes, volcanic quakes can occur repeatedly over days or weeks as the volcano builds pressure. How Ground Shaking Damages Roads and Land Roads crack and split as the soil underneath shifts. Bridges lose stability, becoming unsafe or collapsing entirely. Deep fractures can...