What is volcanic ash made of?

Volcanic ash falls happen infrequently in Alaska. But when there’s enough of the stuff, volcanic ash can pose a risk to people, automobiles and airplanes. Kristi Wallace, a geologist with the USGS, studies ash to better understand volcano behavior and risk.

The Alaska Volcano Observatory is a partnership between the USGS, the Geophysical Institute of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and the State of Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys. Scientist from around Alaska work to understand volcano behavior and keep the public informed during eruptive events.

Video: Eric Keto
Music: Garrett Bevins
Archive Footage/Stills: USGS