Making Sense of How Volcanoes Influence Weather
VOG
An erupting volcano releases sulfur dioxide. When this reacts with oxygen, moisture and sunlight, it causes air pollution. This leads to hazardous reductions in visibility and health issues. Vog is a combination of the words volcanic, fog, and smog.
LAZE
When lava meets the ocean, steam is formed as water evaporates from the extreme heat. These spreading plumes contain tiny volcanic glass particles and hydrochloric acid. Laze is a combination of the words lava and haze.
ACID RAIN
Volcanoes release numerous gasses that are both acidic and highly soluble. When they mix with water droplets, acid rain happens. This toxic precipitation is harmful to crops, drinking water, and infrastructure.
PYROCUMULUS
A volcanic eruption forces heated air upward and can lead to the formation of this type of cloud. Dry lightning can occur in them and the ash cloud can cause issues for planes flying in the area. If powerful enough, a thunderstorm can form.
