Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
lahar
Noun
/ləˈhɑːr/
Definition
A lahar is a type of destructive mudflow or flow of volcanic ash and debris that occurs on the slopes of a volcano.
Examples
- The recent torrential rains triggered a lahar down the volcano’s slopes.
- In 1985, a lahar from Nevado del Ruiz buried the town of Armero in Colombia.
- Scientists study lahars to predict potential hazards for communities living near active volcanoes.
Meaning
Lahars are typically formed when volcanic material, particularly pyroclastic material, becomes saturated with water, usually from heavy rains or melting snow, leading to a fast-moving flow of mud and debris.
Synonyms
- mudflow
- debris flow
- lahar flow
