Question

Select each correct answer. More than one answer may be correct.
Scientists' understanding of volcanoes has grown to the point where the eruption of some types of volcanoes can be predicted within certain levels of accuracy. Many scientists are currently monitoring Mount St. Helens in Washington state, for example, in the hope of accurately predicting future violent eruptions.

Scientists monitoring and predicting future volcanic eruptions can give people living near Mount St. Helens prior warning so that they can take action. What additional measures could help reduce the negative impacts of a future eruption?
Houses could be designed with strong underground foundations.
Warning sirens could be designed.
Emergency evacuation roadways could be designed.
An evacuation plan could be organized.

Answer 1

Correct answers:
- Warning sirens could be designed.
- Emergency evacuation roadways could be designed.
- An evacuation plan could be organized.

Reason: early-alert systems, clear evacuation routes, and organized plans let people leave hazardous areas quickly. Designing houses with "strong underground foundations" is not an effective general volcanic-mitigation measure (basements can fill with ash or gases and foundations don't protect against pyroclastic flows, lahars, or heavy ash loads).