Volcanoes have a fascinating history that can teach us a lot about how to understand potential volcanic hazards. It is important to know the history of past eruptions so we can be better prepared for future eruptions. In the 1800s, vulcanologist Giuseppe Mercalli studied the eruptive history of Vesuvius, and in doing so created what is now known as an eruption column. He was able to predict which areas would be hit first and last based on how high the plume reached from deposits below. These plume height lines allowed residents of nearby towns to evacuate or take precautions.







