Citizen scientists saving lives around deadly 'Throat of Fire' volcano

[Judi Lynn]

Citizen scientists saving lives around deadly 'Throat of Fire' volcano
Date: August 22, 2014
Source: University of East Anglia

Summary:

Citizen scientists are saving the lives of people living in the shadow of deadly volcanoes according to research. A report reveals the success of a volunteer group set up to safeguard communities around the 'Throat of Fire' Tungurahua volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes. The research shows that living safely in dangerous areas can depend on effective communication and collaboration between volcanologists, risk managers and vulnerable communities.

A new report published reveals the success of a volunteer group set up to safeguard communities around the 'Throat of Fire' Tungurahua volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes.

More than 600 million people live close to active volcanoes worldwide. The research shows that living safely in these dangerous areas can depend on effective communication and collaboration between volcanologists, risk managers and vulnerable communities.

It is hoped that the research will help inform similar community engagement in volcanic and other disaster risk reduction projects around the world.

The report looks at a 35-strong network of volunteers called 'vigías', which was set up 14 years ago in the wake of renewed activity at a historically deadly volcano. The eruptions led to a military evacuation of around 25,000 people from Baños and the surrounding area. But leaving homes, land and livelihoods was hard, and the community rallied together to over-run checkpoints and re-occupy the town.

More:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/08/140822094152.htm?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+sciencedaily+%28Latest+Science+News+--+ScienceDaily%29

[Warpy]

1. The science is getting better every year

but instead of issuing just a "bug out NOW" order, the villagers need time to organize getting their animals out so they won't save their lives at the expense of their livelihood.

I can't honestly blame subsistence ranchers for going back and tending their stock. That is all they have.