Mount Merapi Case Study

Question 1

Where is Mount Merapi

Answer 1

On the border between Central Java and Yogyakarta and, Indonesia. This volcano is also apart of the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’

Question 2

When did the eruption take place

Answer 2

In late October 2010 and continued to erupt until the 30th of November 2010

Question 3

Why did the eruptions take place i.e. What caused them

Answer 3

The eruptions were caused by the Indo-Australian plate being subducted beneath the Eurasian plate

Question 4

What happened

Answer 4

Seismic activity around the volcano increased from mid-September onwards, culminating in repeated outbursts of lava and ashes.

Question 5

Who was effected

Answer 5

At least 64 people were killed
Dozens were treated for burns and respiratory problems
An estimated 75,000 residents were evacuated from the area

Question 6

List as many primary effects of this eruption as possible

Answer 6

• Volcanic bombs and hot gases of up to 800°C spread over 11km away
• Pyroclastic flows spread 3km down the mountain
• Ash fell up to 30km away and 5km into the sky. 15km away, villages were under 30cm of ash
• Sulphur Dioxide was blown across Indonesia and as far South as Australia

Question 7

List as many secondary effects of this eruption as possible

Answer 7

• Vegetable prices increased because of the damage to crops
• Emergency shelters had to be moved over 15km away
• Danger area extended to 20km from the mountain and 278,000 people living in this area had to flee their homes
• Planes were grounded in Western Australia because of the risk of damage to aircraft from the ash cloud