Close

Role-play puts worst-case scenario in volcanic hazard spotlight

Volcanic crisis simulation and role-play are valuable tools in communicating hazard assessment, learning monitoring and emergency management skills, as well as developing teamwork and decision-making strengths.

In New Zealand, the Auckland Volcanic Field (AVF) provides the ideal setting for creating a realistic volcanic hazard simulation. It provides the opportunity for a rare urban eruption scenario to teach and test people on their preparedness, response and management of volcanic hazards.

Any eruption within the field – given the population density and economic significance – would affect not only Auckland, but the entire country.

An extensive GNS Science report outlines the role-play simulation based on the AVF eruption scenario. It features the science that informs the scenario and reviews the design of the team structures and roles.

The scenario occurs over a 10-week period. Participants must identify possible volcanic hazards and the potential impacts while mitigating the danger to people.

Social media has been included to illustrate the likely public reaction during this period.

Monitoring data is also streamed in near real-time over a web-based interface. It shows changing conditions, providing a model of volcanic activity and eruptions.

Attachments

Teaching volcanic hazard management and emergency management concepts through role-play: The science behind the Auckland Volcanic Field Simulation. Cover
Teaching volcanic hazard management and emergency management concepts through role-play: The science behind the Auckland Volcanic Field Simulation.

GNS Science Report

Training in crisis communication and volcanic eruption forecasting: design and evaluation of an authentic role-play simulation. Cover
Training in crisis communication and volcanic eruption forecasting: design and evaluation of an authentic role-play simulation.

Journal of Applied Volcanology