The Challenge of Volcano Monitoring, Eruption Forecasting, and Protecting Vulnerable Populations

This presentation by Dr. Jake Lowenstern was prepared for the AGU 2024-2025 Distinguished Lecture Series. It discusses the challenges of volcano monitoring, eruption forecasting, and protecting vulnerable populations.

Dr. Lowenstern presents a wide-ranging overview of volcanoes and the intersection of science, decision-making, and public safety. The presentation will address the following questions: 1) What causes volcanism? 2) How do we assess the long-term risk from volcanoes? 3) What are volcanic hazards and how do their impacts vary? 4) What techniques do we use to track the lead-up to eruptions? 5) How do we forecast eruptions? 6) How does science contribute to decision-making when lives are at risk? And 7) What are the critical factors that ensure vulnerable populations remain safe?

These topics are illuminated with real-world examples from volcanoes around the globe.