Question: can you predict when volcanoes are going to erupt

Natasha Dowey answered on 13 Mar 2019:

The word ‘prediction’ is always a tricky one in science. Because by it’s very nature, a prediction isn’t a certainty. We can make predictions (informed guesses) as to when volcanoes may erupt, based upon the changes we see. For example, if a volcano suddenly started having far more earthquakes around it than usual, we could detect that with seismometers and it may mean magma is moving towards the surface. But it doesn’t necessarily mean an eruption is imminent. We can also measure any changes in the gasses or heat given off by a volcano- but again, even if there are changes it doesn’t mean it will definitely erupt. We are getting better at making more accurate predictions, but sadly sometimes eruptions still happen and we are really unprepared for them.