Eyjafjallajokull Volcano's Ash Cloud Explained

The eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980. (Image credit: Austin Post, USGS)

The eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull volcano during April 2010 has been remarkable for the effects of its ash cloud. The ash cloud created phenomenal lightning displays, colored sunsets red across much of Europe, and forced flight cancellations for several days. Here's what's going on:

  • Gallery: Volcano Lightning
  • Gallery: Volcano Sunsets
  • Gallery: Other Wild Volcanoes
  • More Volcano News
Karl Tate
LiveScience Infographic Artist
Karl has been Purch's infographics specialist across all editorial properties since 2010.  Before joining Purch, Karl spent 11 years at the New York headquarters of The Associated Press, creating news graphics for use around the world in newspapers and on the web.  He has a degree in graphic design from Louisiana State University.