The Historic Volcanic Eruptions Encoded in Art

Researchers explore the impact of volcanic eruptions through art, diaries, and historical records as Iceland braces for a potential eruption.

As the Fagradalsfjall volcano in Iceland shows signs of an imminent eruption, scientists are turning to art, diaries, and medieval records to uncover the long history of global volcanic impacts. Artists like JMW Turner inadvertently captured the fiery beauty of volcanic sunsets in their paintings, while poets, diarists, and monks recorded the atmospheric effects of eruptions. By studying these historical records, researchers gain valuable insights into the potential impacts of future volcanic events.

Illuminating paintings

When volcanoes erupt, they release not only ash and carbon dioxide but also significant amounts of sulfur gases, which form aerosols in the atmosphere. These aerosols reflect sunlight, resulting in vivid sunsets. A study analyzing sunsets painted by European artists between 1500 and 2000 found that the colors used by famous painters could be used to estimate aerosol levels in the past atmosphere. Paintings from periods following major volcanic eruptions often featured more red hues.

The effects of volcanic eruptions on the sky could be seen for years after the initial event. For example, after the Tambora eruption in 1815, which was one of the most powerful eruptions in history, the sky’s colors changed worldwide for up to three years. European painters like Turner captured these atmospheric changes in their works, showcasing hazy yellows and vibrant vermillion skies.

Otherworldly sights

The eruption of Krakatau in 1883 had far-reaching effects, including turning the moon blue. The eruption released vast amounts of sulfuric acid aerosols into the atmosphere, which absorbed red wavelengths of light, making the moon appear blue. The eruption also caused other optical effects, such as haloes around the sun known as “Bishop’s Rings.” Medieval monks unwittingly recorded volcanic eruptions by describing unusually dark or disappearing moons during lunar eclipses. Comparing these records with ice cores and tree rings confirmed the connection between dark moons and volcanic dust in the stratosphere.

Do eruptions cool the climate?

Volcanic eruptions can have a cooling effect on the climate due to the release of aerosols into the atmosphere. However, compared to greenhouse gas emissions from human activities, the impact of volcanic eruptions on global climate is relatively minor. Even during periods of high volcanic activity, simulations show that the cooling effect is temporary and cannot counteract the effects of global warming.

Historic health impacts

While vivid sunsets and other atmospheric phenomena may be harmless, volcanic eruptions can have severe health and economic consequences. Large volcanic eruptions can release ash plumes that travel great distances, affecting air quality and posing risks to vulnerable populations. For example, the eruption of the Laki fissure in Iceland in 1783 caused a choking haze of sulfurous aerosols over Europe, leading to tens of thousands of deaths.

Historical records, such as diaries and weather observations, help scientists estimate the potential health risks of future eruptions. By studying the effects of the Laki eruption, researchers reconstructed changes in the local climate and discovered its connection to crop failures and unusual weather patterns. The hazards posed by a future eruption similar to Laki could result in poor air quality and significant premature deaths in Europe.

Conclusion:

Art, diaries, and historical records provide valuable insights into the impact of volcanic eruptions on the atmosphere, climate, and human health. By studying the paintings of artists like Turner and analyzing medieval records, scientists can better understand the long history of volcanic impacts and use this knowledge to prepare for future eruptions. As Iceland awaits the potential eruption of Fagradalsfjall, the lessons learned from the past will help mitigate the potential risks and consequences of volcanic activity.


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