Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Although an overwhelming majority of participants have followed media discus-
sions concerning Katla most have not actively sourced hazard information available
on the internet. Internet usage was quite low even though Bird et al. (2008) reported
that 83% of Icelandic households have internet connection and 79% of internet us-
ers interact with public authorities. Despite this, it is important to utilize all forms of
media as individuals prefer various means of acquiring information (Haynes et al.,
2008). Furthermore, the perceived credibility and trust in hazard information can be
compromised if forms of distribution are limited (e.g. just pamphlets and TV advertis-
ing) (Paton et al., 2008).
The precise location of a future eruption is uncertain therefore making it impossi-
ble to predict which direction the jökulhlaup will fl ow from the glacier margin (Sturkell
et al., 2008). Furthermore, adequate preparation for all hazard consequences, such as
lightning and tephra, is essential for all residents. The infrequent and complex nature
of volcanic hazards increases the public's need to have easily accessible expert infor-
mation in order to guide their risk management decisions (Paton et al., 2008).
In summary, the key outcomes of this research are:
• Improve the communication system.
• Emphasise the sweepers' role in supporting the dissemination of warning and
evacuation information.
• Provide more detailed information on the effects of other volcanic hazards such
as tephra, lightning, and rock fall and what preparedness measures can be ap-
plied to best protect person, property, and livestock.
• Ensure that all residents know exactly how much time they have to evacuate.
• Empower residents through involvement in risk mitigation planning.
• Provide feedback on proposed strategy outcomes within a reasonable timeframe
(for example, within 3 months after completion).
• Continue to provide hazard information within an appropriate timeframe at
town meetings with knowledgeable experts. The timeframe should be based on
the level of alert (i.e. meetings should be more frequent when there is a higher
risk of an eruption).
• Promote the use of all media sources for volcanic hazard information.
Further Developments and Future Research
Sturkell et al. (2008) report on seismic and geodetic measurements from around Katla
between 1999 and 2005. Although increasing rates of crustal deformation and seismic-
ity have lowered considerably, they believe that the volcano remains in an agitated
state and an eruption in the near future should be expected. Therefore continued de-
velopment of risk mitigation procedures is essential.
Improvements have been made to the communication system following the fail-
ures during the evacuation exercise and plans are underway to test the network (K.
Porkelsson, personal communication, 2008). The ICP has confi rmed the problem is
being rectifi ed and that the chief of police in Rangávallasysla is charged with the
responsibility of testing the communication system during a follow-up exercise (R.
