The Laki Volcanic Eruption: June 8, 1783

On June 8, 1783, the Laki volcanic fissure in Iceland began an eruption that would last for eight months, marking one of the most significant volcanic events in recorded history. This eruption had profound environmental, climatic, and societal impacts, both locally in Iceland and globally.

Background

Laki, or Lakagígar, is a volcanic fissure situated in the south of Iceland. It is part of the Grímsvötn volcanic system, which is one of the most active in Iceland. Prior to the 1783 eruption, Iceland had experienced several volcanic activities, but none matched the scale and impact of the Laki eruption.

The Eruption

• Duration: The eruption began on June 8, 1783, and continued until February 1784.
• Magnitude: The fissure, approximately 27 kilometers long, produced an estimated 14 cubic kilometers of basalt lava and emitted around 120 million tons of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere.
• Local Impact: The eruption devastated Iceland’s agriculture. The volcanic gases and ash led to the poisoning of the soil and water, killing over 50% of the livestock population. This resulted in a severe famine, known as the “Móðuharðindin” or “Mist Hardships,” which caused the death of approximately 25% of Iceland’s human population.

Global Consequences

The Laki eruption had far-reaching effects beyond Iceland:

• Climate Disruption: The massive release of sulfur dioxide formed sulfuric acid aerosols in the atmosphere, which reflected sunlight and led to a drop in temperatures across the Northern Hemisphere. This phenomenon, known as “volcanic winter,” caused crop failures and food shortages in Europe and parts of North America.
• Environmental Impact: The eruption contributed to extreme weather conditions, including the harsh winter of 1784, which was one of the coldest on record in Europe and North America.
• Health Effects: The “Laki haze,” a dry fog laden with sulfur dioxide, spread across Europe, causing respiratory problems and other health issues.

Historical Significance

The Laki eruption is a pivotal event in understanding the relationship between volcanic activity and climate change. It highlighted the potential for volcanic eruptions to cause significant climatic and societal disruptions. The event also influenced scientific studies on atmospheric chemistry and the impact of aerosols on climate.

Aftermath

In the years following the eruption, Iceland faced a long recovery period. The famine and loss of livestock had lasting effects on the population and economy. Globally, the eruption contributed to discussions and studies on climate anomalies and their causes, laying groundwork for future research in climatology and environmental science.

The Laki eruption remains a key example of the power of natural phenomena to alter human history and the environment on a global scale.