The WHO estimates that the rock particles emitted by the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjöll does not represent a risk to Europeans. The effects of the eruption on the climate should also be low.

The World Health Organization (WHO) believes that the ash cloud of Eyjafjöll is not hazardous to public health.

According to WHO, the rock particles emitted by the volcano on the Icelandic Europe remain in the upper atmosphere. They thus present no risk to health on the continent.

The organization advises, however, Icelanders who live near the volcano to wear masks and eye protection when venturing outside.

This message contrasts with the one issued last week by WHO. The organization was then called on Europeans to stay home if volcanic ash began to stagnate, saying they could be “very dangerous” for people with respiratory problems.

Dr Carlos Dora, Department of Public Health and Environment WHO, said the most dangerous particles are smaller, which could penetrate deep into the lungs. Currently, they are scattered all over Europe. Mr. Dora expected that these particles, which are still “very high” in the atmosphere will be widely dispersed with the weather.

Estimated Risks for low environmental

Several experts are also looking now on the possible consequences of the eruption of the volcano Eyjafjöll on climate. If he continues to spew lava, the particles released could possibly help to cool slightly the surface temperature of the planet.

Many remember the weather disturbances that had driven the eruption of Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991. The column of smoke was climbing up to 20 km, and had even reached 50 km in some places. The earth’s temperature had decreased by about half a degree for three years.

However, the eruption of the Icelandic volcano is currently not in that order. The column of smoke now reached 8 km. According to volcanologist John Stix, McGill University, plus the smoke is low, there is less risk of disrupting the climate.

Mr. Stix describes the eruption in Iceland low. “The effects will be low too, if the level of activity continues as today,” he says.

Concern in Iceland

In Iceland the air quality does not seem to be the main concern of the population.

Icelanders rather fear that the volcano Katla, much more powerful than his neighbor, Eyjafjöll, does turn to erupt. The consequences of an eruption of Katla would be much higher on Iceland and Europe.

On the other hand, Icelanders, affected by a major economic crisis, fear that the problems caused by the current eruption of the volcano have adverse effects on their economy, including tourism.

In addition, Icelanders seem satisfied with the way the government handled the recent events which have caused no casualties.

Incoming search terms:

• rock particles