According to Ready.gov, there are 161 potentially active volcanoes in the United States. Alaska, Hawaii, California, Washington and Oregon have the largest number of active volcanoes, but other states and territories also have active volcanoes.

A volcanic eruption can:

  • Contaminate water supplies.
  • Damage machinery.
  • Reduce visibility through smog and harmful gases that may threaten low-lying areas.
  • Make it hard to breathe and irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat.

Volcanic eruptions can be vastly different depending on the type and size of the volcano.  Some common elements that may be present in eruptions are:

  • Ash
  • Gases
  • Seismic Activity
  • Lava

All of these components can cause damage to vast areas near the volcano. Ready.gov provides instructions for Volcano preparedness and evacuation.  There are also tips to survive during an eruption.

Learn how to be prepared for a volcanic eruption with FEMA.

View Fact Sheet 

Learn your risk of a volcano warning with the USGS Volcano Hazards Program.

View the Program

Volcanic Impacts and Recovery

Preparing Livestock

The University of Hawaii has information available regarding agricultural response to Volcanic Activity, as well as Farm Service Agency Programs and additional resources.  For detail information, check here.