The most common cause of death from a volcano is asphyxia or suffocation.
Volcanoes emit hot gases, ash and rock that are powerfully destructive.
People have died from volcanic blast when they were too close and failed to heed evacuation warnings. Other health concerns include floods, power outages, drinking water contamination, burns and respiratory illness. Heed warnings and instruction from local authorities. Stay inside unless you are told otherwise. Wear goggles to protect eyes and a dust mask or damp cloth to protect nose, throat and lungs.