What is a volcanic eruption? A volcanic eruption is the sudden, and often unpredictable, outpouring of lava and/or ash from a volcano.

Volcanic eruption

Ash from Mt Pinotubo volcano.

Volcanic eruptions are of two kinds. One kind produces large amounts of ash and glowing avalanches of ash and dust that race down the slopes of the cone. This is the most violent and dangerous kind of volcanic eruption.

The other kind produces tongues of lava. This is a less dangerous kind.

Video: lava coming from a crater.

This video shows you the famous Mt St Helens eruption.

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