Pacific plate will shake here

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 228, 26 January 1988, Page 16

Pacific plate will shake here

The "Pacific Ring of Fire" is not only responsible for many earthquakes in New Zealand but also for bubbling volcanic activity which could affect ov^r a million New Zealanders. This ring is where the Pacific Plate boundary slips beneath the IndianAustralian Plate turning cold hard rock into fiery liquid which adds pressure to the earth's molten interior. Some of this liquid, called magma, is forced from a 120 kilometre depth to form chambers just a fcw kilometres below the earth's surface. Gas bubbles cause more pressure in these chambcrs and when this becomes too great magma breaks through the earth's surface in a volcanic eruption. Active There are over 50 of these active volcanic chambers in the densely populated

Auckland mctropolitan arca alone. Other areas affected are Northland, Taranaki, White Island, Okataina where Mt Tarawera dcstroyed the famous Pink and White Terraces, Rotorua and Taupo, and the Tongariro National Park. The country's largest civil dcfence exercise to teach people how to cope in a volcanic eruption will take place in Auckland next November. Hints Meanwhile the AMP Civil Defcnce survival skills projcct has a fcw hints for residcnts and visitors in all affected areas. Always be prepared - have a "getaway and- survival" kit on hand. Know what your Civil Defence Siren sounds like, where your nearest Civil Dcfence post is and a quick route to safe ground. When an eruption threatens - listen to your radio for information and follow civil defcnce advicc.

During an eruption some "dos" are - start saving water straight away because supplies may become polluted by ash. Stay indoors as much as possible - pets too. Take clothes that have been wom outside off before entering a building as volcanic ash is difficult to get rid of. Always wear a mask and goggles outside to keep volcanic ash out of eyes and lungs. Keep below hilly ridges for prolection against flying volcanic debris. Keep gutters and roofs clear of ash as they could collapse. Some "don'ts" during an eruption are - don't go sightseeing in restricted areas, don't leave home unless advised to do so by Civil Defence or other emergency scrvices. If you have to leave home don't forgct to take your "getaway kit" and turn off electricity and gas at the rnains.