What is VOG?

VOG, or volcanic fog, is a combination of droplets of gases and particles known as aerosols that act as a pollutant air around active volcanoes. The existence of VOG may pose a danger to humans and is associated with an increased risk of respiratory diseases and worsening of existing respiratory problems. One of the best examples of volcanic fog is located on the Great Island of Hawaii, where plumes based on regular Kilauea volcano can affect air quality, visibility and health risks in the South Islands in Hawaii.

deep in the exploding volcano is a magma full of melted substances that become gases when the molten rock rises towards the surface. These gases include several known pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. When the gases bubble from the volcano, they form large clouds, which can then settle over the surrounding areas or be transmitted by winds to distant locations. Volcones also lift substances known as AeroSols, which are small clusters of particles or liquid drops suspended in gas, which are expected to be responsible for some cases of climate change.

high in the atmosphere, gases can increase ozone exhaustion and can fall on the ground like sour rain. Closer to the surface can significantly reduce visibility and is associated with the deterioration of some respiratory diseases. Cases of bronchitis, pneumonia and asthma may increase during the period of significant volcanic fog. Minor symptoms such as allergies, headaches and fatigue may also be the result of heavy volcanic fog. Some studies suggest that children who are brought up in a regularly exposed volcanic fog can earn an increased risk of developing asthma and other chronic respiratory disorders.

While VOG can occur after a large volcanic eruption, it may be a daily function in any active volcanic area. On the Great Island in Hawaii is VOG PRAvidal occurrence despite generally moderate volcanic activity. Because a large island has such a high, persistent level of volcanic fog, it is often an epicenter of studies that determines the movement and the resulting pollution of the smog haze. The local government of the island takes many preventive measures such as publishing the daily VOG level index to help citizens avoid unpleasant side effects of VOG.

In the volcanic area, people can often detect polluting fog simply by examining air quality. Unlike smog, which is characterized by a yellow inhalation, volcanic fog is recognizable by blue-colored air and significantly reduced visibility. Experts on health propose to limit outdoor exposure when VOG levels are high, and installing air cleaners inside the houses to reduce passive exposure. Those who experience side effects of heavy vog must moisturize, drink warm liquids to release any intensified air pollution and should not be practiced outside.