In 1815, Indonesia's Mount Tambora erupted, causing the most powerful volcanic eruption in recorded history.

 

In 1815, Indonesia's Mount Tambora erupted, causing the most powerful volcanic eruption in recorded history. 

 

The massive plume of particles cooled the planet, leading to the "Year Without a Summer" in 1816. Global temperatures dropped, crops failed, and famine and a cholera pandemic ensued.

 

Today, scientists warn that another super-eruption is inevitable, with a 1-in-6 chance of occurring this century. Such an event would have dire consequences due to the higher global population and ongoing climate crisis. 

 

Currently, there is no plan to address this catastrophe.

Volcanic eruptions release sulfur dioxide, which cools the Earth by forming aerosols that reflect sunlight. This cooling effect can last for years, but does not offset the long-term warming trend from climate change.

 

A major eruption could cause massive economic losses, estimated at over $3.6 trillion in the first year, and affect 800 million people living near active volcanoes. Potential eruption sites include Indonesia and Yellowstone National Park in the US.