The Deadly Secret of Kula and Hasan Mountain: The Only Solution to Avoid Destruction
Turkey is known as an earthquake country, with experts constantly warning about the risks and journalists covering the topic extensively. While earthquakes are a natural phenomenon, they are not solely responsible for the destructive impacts of disasters. Poor urban planning, settlements in high-risk areas, and villages near active volcanoes all contribute to the vulnerability of communities to natural disasters.
One such example is the eruption of Ağrı and Tendürek mountains in 1840 and 1855, which led to the destruction of Ahura Village and the loss of 1,900 lives. Despite the historical volcanic activity in Turkey, such as the last eruption of Kula and Hasan Mountains thousands of years ago, the risk of future explosions remains a concern for experts.
Koray Çetin Önalan, the Chamber of Geological Engineers Izmir Branch President, highlighted the importance of understanding the impact of volcanic activity on climate change and mass extinctions in history. He emphasized the need for proper urban planning to mitigate the risks posed by active volcanoes and fault lines.
With 16 volcanoes in Turkey, 10 of which are active according to the Mineral Research and Exploration Agency, the population is potentially at risk of volcanic eruptions triggered by earthquakes. Recent seismic activity near Incirli Island, Greece, following an eruption in 1887, serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by active volcanoes in the region.
As Mustafa Kemal Atatürk once said, 92 percent of the Turkish population is at risk of facing disasters, whether from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or other natural events. It is crucial to prioritize scientific knowledge and urban planning strategies to protect communities from the devastating impacts of future disasters.
In conclusion, understanding the geological risks posed by active volcanoes and fault lines is essential for disaster preparedness and risk mitigation in Turkey. By taking proactive measures and listening to scientific experts, communities can better adapt to the unpredictable nature of natural disasters and safeguard against future threats.
