B11

The largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century occurred in June 1912 in the state of Alaska, USA. During the three days of the eruption, there was total darkness in the area and there was so much ash and gas in the atmosphere

 DARK

B12

that breathing outdoors was impossible. The cloud of ash and gas was thousands of miles across and covered southern Alaska and western Canada.

 POSSIBLE

B13

Water became undrinkable, radio communications were interrupted and many houses collapsed under the weight of ash.

COMMUNICATE

B14

There was also significant environmental damage; many plants and wildlife were destroyed and the area took years to recover.

ENVIRONMENT

B15

Believe it or not, despite their destructive nature, it is also possible to find diamonds on or around some volcanoes. These diamonds are usually brought to the top of the volcano by an eruption. There is an active volcano called Dotsero, in Yellowstone National Park, USA, for example, where diamonds can be found.

 DESTRUCT

B16

The volcano last erupted about 4,000 years ago and it is not dangerous to climb. As they are not of good quality, anyone who finds any diamonds is allowed to keep them!

 DANGER