Mathematical models developed by the USGS, UAF, and NOAA forecast various aspects of how a volcanic ash plume will interact with wind—where, how high, and how fast ash particles will be transported in the atmosphere, as well as where ash will fall out and accumulate on the ground. AVO runs these models when a volcano is restless by assuming a reasonable hypothetical eruption, in order to provide a pre-eruptive forecast of areas likely to be affected. During an ongoing eruption, AVO will update the forecast with actual observations (eruption start time and duration, plume height) as they become available. All models use the same input parameters so they are comparable. Click on individual graphics to learn more.
ASH CLOUD FORECASTS (AIRBORNE):