Thursday, May 17, 2012

How close can the helicopter go to the volcano?

Guillaume Levieux
Published on 29 July 2011
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This really depends on the activity at the volcano at the time. The helicopter needs to avoid volcanic ash as it can damage the engines so rarely goes downwind of the volcano. The helicopter should also always stay at a distance from the dome where it will not be hit by a sudden explosion. Cloud cover increases the risks to the helicopter as it may hide dangerous activity on the dome.

Do those orange suits that MVO scientists wear really protect them?

Guillaume Levieux
Published on 29 July 2011
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Nothing can provide personal protection from a pyroclastic flow. The orange suits offer some protection against heat and burns. MVO scientists also carry helmets and gas masks, which offer some protection against falling rocks and gases. Together, this equipment should increase the probability of survival if a scientist or technician is caught on the margins of a pyroclastic flow or surge.

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