Zone 1 is called the 'pyroclastic zone'. Surges of scorching hot gas and ash (over 400 centigrade) exceeding the speed of sound would spill from the side of the volano and could extend up to 100 kilometres out. It is not survivable.

Chart information supplied by FEMA. Map base from NASA.

Zone 2 would have to be evacuated completely prior to the eruption. The very heavy ashfall would collapse all structures. Vegatation, livestock and aquatic life would die. Power and telephone lines would break and roads would become completely unusable.

Chart information supplied by FEMA. Map base from NASA.

Zone 3 would have to be evacuated completely prior to the eruption. The very heavy ashfall would collapse all structures. Vegatation, livestock and aquatic life would die. Power and telephone lines would break and roads would become completely unusable.

Chart information supplied by FEMA. Map base from NASA.

Zone 4 would still see substantial amounts of ashfull. Any areas with more than 30 centimetres of ash are under severe risk. The primary cause of death would be from roofs collapsing due to heavy ash load, potentially 1 in 3 people would be killed this way. Breathing outside would be very difficult. The water would be contaminated with sulphuric acid. The ash would enter air filtration systems causing air quality problems in structures still standing. There would likely be no power and very limited transporation, if any at all.

Chart information supplied by FEMA. Map base from NASA.

Buildings in zone 5 are still at risk of collapse if the roofs are not immediately cleared of ash. Trees would be severely damaged due to breaking of branches. Road transport would be halted due to build up of ash on roads and cars would stop working as air-filters become clogged. Rail transport and electricity may be cut as wet ash short circuits signaling systems and sub-stations.

Chart information supplied by FEMA. Map base from NASA.

Minor damage to buildings in Zone 6 will occur as ash enters, soils interiors and blocks air conditioning filters. Electricity may be cut as wet ash causes shorting at sub-stations. This would cause water supplies to be cut. Roads would need to be cleared to prevent ash from blocking storm-water systems. Crop damage is possible and livestock may be affected by lack of feed and contamination of water supplies. Damage to electrical equipment and machinery is likely.

Chart information supplied by FEMA. Map base from NASA.