In late August 2024, the UK was affected by a significant health alert caused by a cloud of sulfur dioxide (SO2) that spread across the region. This cloud originated from a volcanic eruption in Iceland, sparking concerns over its potential health impacts. This article explores the key details surrounding this health alert, what sulfur dioxide is, the associated risks, and how the situation unfolded.

What Is Sulphur Dioxide?

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a colorless, pungent gas typically associated with industrial activities such as the burning of fossil fuels like coal and oil. It is also naturally emitted during volcanic eruptions. SO2 can lead to the formation of fine particulate matter, contributing to air pollution. In high concentrations, it can cause respiratory problems and irritate the eyes and throat. It is particularly concerning for individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as asthma or bronchitis.

The Volcanic Eruption and the Formation of the Gas Cloud

The sulfur dioxide cloud that affected the UK in August 2024 resulted from an eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland. Volcanic eruptions can release vast amounts of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. In this case, the eruption, which began on August 22, released a substantial quantity of SO2. The cloud then drifted toward the UK, where it was visible in weather forecasts as it spread over several cities, including London, Norwich, and Hull​.

Health Risks and Symptoms of Exposure to Sulphur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide exposure can cause a number of health problems.  When inhaled, the gas can irritate the upper respiratory system, causing symptoms such as:

Sore throat

Coughing

Difficulty breathing

Burning eyes

Runny nose

Tight chest or lungs

Individuals with asthma or other chronic respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to these symptoms. Additionally, prolonged exposure to high concentrations of SO2 can exacerbate conditions like bronchitis and lead to long-term health complications​.

The UK’s Response to the Health Alert

Despite concerns over the gas cloud, the UK’s official response, led by the Met Office, was measured. They assured the public that the sulfur dioxide plume was high in the atmosphere and unlikely to have a significant impact on ground-level air quality. The plume was not expected to cause serious air pollution across the UK. However, the Met Office did monitor the situation closely and provided updates to ensure public awareness​.

How Serious Was the Situation?

The primary concern was the possible health effects on vulnerable individuals. However, experts, including those from the Met Office and Michigan Technological University, indicated that the concentration of SO2 at ground level was unlikely to reach dangerous levels. The gas’s highest concentrations remained well above the surface, causing little impact on air quality at the ground level. This led to reassurance that only those in specific areas, such as near the eruption site or in the direct path of the gas, would experience significant exposure​.

What Should You Do if Exposed to the Gas?

If you live in an area where the sulfur dioxide cloud is affecting air quality, it is essential to follow these health recommendations:

Try to spend as much time indoors as you can, particularly if you have respiratory conditions.

Close windows and doors to prevent gas from entering your home.

Use air purifiers if available, especially ones with HEPA filters that can reduce particulate matter in the air.

Monitor symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or any severe irritation in your eyes or throat.

Is This Event Common?

While the UK’s experience with a sulfur dioxide cloud was alarming, it is not entirely uncommon. Volcanic eruptions release sulfur gasses regularly, but the effects on nearby regions vary depending on wind patterns and the scale of the eruption. Past instances, such as the eruption of Iceland’s Eyjafjallajökull volcano in 2010, have caused widespread disruptions across Europe. However, it’s relatively rare for volcanic SO2 clouds to reach significant concentrations in the UK​.

How Do Volcanic Eruptions Affect Air Quality?

Volcanic eruptions contribute to air pollution by releasing gasses like sulfur dioxide and ash into the atmosphere. SO2 can transform into sulfuric acid, which then mixes with water vapor to form acid rain. These volcanic clouds can travel thousands of miles across oceans, impacting air quality far from the eruption site. In addition to volcanic glasses, ash from eruptions can create additional hazards, including disruptions to air travel and local infrastructure​.

FAQs

What is the recent health alert about a gas cloud?

A health alert was issued due to a large sulfur dioxide gas cloud that passed over the UK after an eruption in Iceland. This gas, typically released from volcanic activity, has caused concerns regarding air quality, although authorities have confirmed that the levels of the gas at ground level are low and not harmful​.

What caused the gas cloud?

The gas cloud originated from a volcanic eruption in southwestern Iceland, where the volcano erupted multiple times, sending sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. The cloud spread across parts of the UK, but it was high enough in the atmosphere that it did not significantly affect ground-level air quality​. 

How dangerous is sulfur dioxide?

Sulfur dioxide can be harmful at high concentrations, causing irritation to the throat, nausea, and even vomiting. However, in this case, the levels of sulfur dioxide at ground level were minimal, meaning the overall impact on public health was low​.

Are there any health risks to the public from this gas cloud?

The risk is considered very low for the public, as the sulfur dioxide cloud was at a high altitude and had little impact on air quality near the ground. Health risks are more significant in areas directly affected by volcanic eruptions where gas concentrations are higher​.

Conclusion

While the sulfur dioxide cloud that affected the UK in August 2024 caused concern, the actual risks to the general population were limited. With appropriate monitoring and guidance from health authorities, the threat to public health was minimized. However, for those with respiratory conditions, this event highlighted the importance of remaining aware of air quality conditions and following precautionary measures during such occurrences. As the world faces increasing natural disasters and climate change effects, understanding the impact of volcanic activity and gas clouds on air quality will remain an essential part of disaster preparedness and health management.

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