Can You Outrun Lava? A Volcanologist’s Perspective on Speed, Survival, and Molten Rock

The short answer is: probably, yes. Most lava flows are surprisingly slow. However, “outrunning” lava isn’t as simple as a straight sprint. Let’s delve into the complexities of lava flow speeds, the dangers involved, and what to do (and not do!) should you ever find yourself in such a fiery situation.

Understanding Lava Flow Speed

The speed of a lava flow depends on several factors:

• Type of Lava: Basaltic lava, common in Hawaii, tends to be more fluid and flows more readily than more viscous lavas like andesite or rhyolite. Think of it like comparing water to thick honey.
• Slope: Steeper slopes lead to faster flows. Gravity, as always, plays a significant role.
• Volume: A larger volume of lava will naturally flow faster and further.
• Cooling and Solidification: As lava cools, it becomes more viscous and eventually solidifies, slowing and eventually stopping the flow.
• Eruption Rate: A higher eruption rate means more lava is being supplied, sustaining the flow’s speed and extent.

Most basaltic lava flows move at a walking pace or slower. We’re talking speeds of a few meters per hour to a few meters per minute. This means the average person could easily outwalk most lava flows. However, some flows can be significantly faster.

The Fastest Lava Flows: Exceptions to the Rule

While most lava flows are slow, there are exceptions. The Nyiragongo eruption in 1977 saw lava flows reach speeds of up to 60 km/hr (40 mph). This was due to a combination of highly fluid lava, steep slopes, and a massive eruption volume. Such speeds are rare, but they highlight the potential for danger.

More Than Just Speed: The Real Hazards

Even if you can outrun the lava, you’re not necessarily safe. Other dangers associated with lava flows include:

• Heat: The radiant heat from a lava flow is intense. Even at a distance, it can be unbearable and cause dehydration and burns.
• Toxic Gases: Lava releases various gases, including sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide. These gases can be harmful or even deadly, especially in enclosed areas.
• Rough Terrain: Volcanic landscapes are often uneven and unstable. Scrambling over rocks and ash can be tiring and dangerous.
• Explosions: When lava interacts with water (e.g., flowing into the ocean or encountering groundwater), it can cause explosions.
• Lava Tubes: These underground tunnels can collapse, creating hidden hazards.

Practical Considerations for Survival

If you find yourself near an active lava flow:

• Stay Informed: Monitor official warnings and evacuation orders from local authorities. They have the best information on the flow’s trajectory and potential hazards.
• Evacuate Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Give yourself plenty of time to reach a safe location.
• Move Upwind: Stay upwind of the lava flow to avoid toxic gases.
• Wear Protective Gear: If possible, wear long sleeves, pants, and a mask or respirator to protect yourself from heat, ash, and gases.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch out for unstable ground, steam vents, and other hazards.
• Don’t Approach the Lava: Maintain a safe distance from the lava flow. Remember, radiant heat can be dangerous even from afar.
• Heed Expert Advice: Follow the instructions of volcanologists and emergency personnel. They are trained to assess the risks and provide guidance.

Games Learning Society and Volcanic Education

Understanding volcanic hazards is crucial for communities living near active volcanoes. Educational initiatives, including those incorporating game-based learning, can play a vital role in raising awareness and promoting preparedness. To learn more about innovative approaches to education, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ or GamesLearningSociety.org.

FAQs: Lava and Survival

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about lava and the possibility of outrunning it, expanding on the information presented above:

1. What is the average speed of a lava flow?

The average speed of a lava flow is typically between a few meters per hour and a few meters per minute. This is slow enough for most people to outwalk.

2. Can all lava flows be outrun?

No. While most lava flows are slow, some, like the Nyiragongo eruption in 1977, have reached speeds of up to 60 km/hr (40 mph), making them impossible to outrun.

3. What factors affect the speed of a lava flow?

The speed of a lava flow is influenced by the type of lava, the slope of the terrain, the volume of lava, the cooling and solidification rate, and the eruption rate.

4. Is it safe to get close to a lava flow?

No. Even if you can outrun the lava, the radiant heat and toxic gases can be dangerous. Stay a safe distance away.

5. What kind of burns would you get if lava touched your skin?

Even brief contact with lava can cause severe burns. The intensity of the burn depends on the duration of contact and the lava’s temperature. First, second, or third-degree burns are possible.

6. What happens if you fall into lava?

Falling into lava would likely be fatal. The extreme heat would cause immediate and severe burns, boiling of bodily fluids, and organ failure. Volcanic gases would likely render you unconscious quickly.

7. Will a human body sink or float in lava?

A human body would likely float on lava due to the lava’s high viscosity and density differences. However, the extreme heat would still cause immediate and fatal burns.

8. Can lava melt everything?

No. While lava can melt many common materials like plastics, glass, and some metals, it’s not hot enough to melt materials with higher melting points, such as steel, nickel, and iron.

9. What are the dangers of volcanic gases?

Volcanic gases like sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide can be harmful or deadly. They can cause respiratory problems, asphyxiation, and other health issues.

10. How do you protect yourself from volcanic gases?

Stay upwind of the lava flow, wear a mask or respirator, and evacuate to a safe location.

11. Can you use water to stop a lava flow?

Water can slow down a lava flow by cooling it and increasing its viscosity. However, large amounts of water are needed, and the interaction can cause explosions.

12. What is the best way to mitigate the risk of lava flows?

The best way to mitigate the risk of lava flows is to divert the flow away from populated areas, slow its advance, or evacuate the affected area.

13. How hot is lava?

The temperature of lava typically ranges from 700 to 1200 degrees Celsius (1300 to 2200 degrees Fahrenheit).

14. Has anyone ever survived falling into lava?

There have been a couple of instances of geologists falling into shallow lava, particularly at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. They were able to get out quickly and survived, but sustained severe burns and required hospitalization.

15. What should you do if you live near an active volcano?

If you live near an active volcano, stay informed about potential hazards, develop an evacuation plan, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Conclusion: Respect the Power of Volcanoes

While you can likely outrun most lava flows, it’s crucial to remember that volcanoes are powerful and unpredictable forces of nature. Respect the dangers, stay informed, and prioritize your safety.