Global Volcano Hazard Frequency, Distribution, and Risks, 79 A.D.-2000

This data set is part of the Natural Disaster Hotspots Collection of global geospatial data of six major natural hazards (earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, floods, drought, and cyclones). It provides a 2.5 minute grid representing spatial coverage of volcanic activity (79 A.D.-2000 A.D.). This database includes nearly 4,000 events categorized as moderate or above (values 2-8) according to the Volcano Explosivity Index (VEI). Also included are 2.5 minute grids representing the associated risks of mortality and economic loss from these hazards. Risk levels are estimated by combining hazard exposure with historical vulnerability for two indicators of elements at risk (gridded population and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per unit area) for each of the six natural disaster hazards. The risk levels are conveyed at sub-national scales and can be used to inform a range of disaster prevention and preparedness measures, including prioritization of resources, targeting of more localized and detailed risk assessments, implementation of risk-based disaster management and emergency response strategies, and development of long-term land-use plans and multi-hazard risk management strategies.