Hawaii volcano emitting noxious sulfur dioxide
DEAR DOCTOR: Our 68-year-old father moved to Hilo, Hawaii, two years ago. He’s not that great about using sunscreen, so my siblings and I always figured skin cancer would be the biggest health threat. But now with the Kilauea volcano, we’re way more worried about the toxic fumes. Are they as dangerous as the news stories say?
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Among the emissions sulfur is dioxide, or SO2, a colorless, nonflammable gas with the acrid odor of a just-struck match. It’s a noxious gas that in certain concentrations is toxic and potentially deadly. Scientists report that significant amounts of the gas are emerging from the volcano’s various vents and fissures.
People exposed to the gas near the volcano may experience eye irritation that can become severe, sneezing, coughing and choking, and a burning sensation or even a rash on the skin. Prolonged exposure to SO2 can cause bronchitis and swelling of the upper airways to the point that breathing becomes difficult or impossible. That’s because the gas is highly soluble in water and is easily absorbed by the moist environment of the respiratory tract. SO2 gas is bad news for anyone, but the young, elderly and those with breathing issues are at greater risk of serious side effects. This is why residents have been evacuated from the immediate area and have been allowed to return to fetch pets and valuables only when it has been determined that SO2 is at acceptable levels.
Living in Hilo, a safe distance away from the volcanic activity, your father isn’t at direct risk from SO2 gas. However, falling ash, as well as a mixture of SO2 and water vapor from fog or rain, known as “vog,” can affect air quality across a wide radius. Staying indoors and avoiding exertion can help protect him from the worst conditions.