Building on Volcanic Land: Opportunities and Challenges

Kilauea Eruption: Up-Close With Volcano Scientists (January 16, 2025)
HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK - The 4th episode of the Kilauea summit eruption continued into Thursday, with high lava fountains and raining tephra.

A synthesized text-to-video voiceover was used in the narration for this story. All images and video are courtesy the U.S. Geological Survey..

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Click here to read Living on Kīlauea — one of world’s most active volcanoes — involves risk, mitigation efforts

Big Island residents who live on Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, know it comes with high risk. Memories of the destructive and unprecedented 2018 lower East Rift Zone eruption in Puna are still fresh

Click here to read Homes built on volcano

Homes have been built on volcanoes in Hawaii, including on the slopes of Kīlauea and in the Kalapana Gardens community.

Homes built on the slopes of Kīlauea

Phoenix House
A 450 square foot home built on stilts at the base of Kīlauea, the world's most active volcano. The house is clad in wood blackened using the Japanese charring technique of Shou Sugi Ban.

Volcano House
A historic hotel located on the rim of Kīlauea Caldera in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. The hotel has been in various forms and locations at the summit of Kīlauea since 1846. Homes built in the Kalapana Gardens community

Homes built on hardened lava
Dozens of homes have been built on hardened lava from the 1990 eruption of Kīlauea. Some of these homes were built without regard to code and lack access to electricity and sewage systems.

Homes built on lava fields
Some newcomers have built homes directly on fields of hardened lava from eruptions that destroyed other communities.

Solo girl terraforms lava field with off-grid oasis & rugged tiny home
15 years ago, Jade Chen left New York City to settle on a remote lava field far from any store or utility. She bought 1/6 of an acre on top of a neighborhood that had been buried in the 1990 eruption.

Jade was one of the first to return to the area but slowly others joined, and now despite being far from the grid, there are dozens of homes here, capturing the sun and rain. Her property came with an unfinished home and she has slowly turned it into 3 units which she uses for nightly rentals and yoga classes.

Some of Jade's renters have gone on to buy properties and are now her neighbors (she now manages 10 homes in the area).

Some of her Jade's tenants have bought their own lots and built their own floating homes. Treehouse builder Will Beilharz lofted his Phoenix and Ohana houses several feet above the lava so in the event of another eruption, they can be scooped up and carried off on tractor-trailers.

Our family spent the night in the Phoenix house, and its adjacent escape pod, which are equipped with a tin wash-basin sink, a camp stove, and showers that drain right onto the lava. Outside, a 5000-gallon tank holds rainwater captured from the roofs.

With the sparse vegetation and no power lines in site, the views across the lava feel endless. It’s a landscape that Jade explains is not understood by everyone, but for her, it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Volcanic landscapes, with their stunning views and unique ecosystems, attract many prospective homeowners and developers. However, building on volcanic land is not without its complexities. This blog post will explore the ease and difficulties of constructing homes in these areas, the inherent dangers, and essential safety tips for residents in case of an eruption.

The Allure of Volcanic Land

Unique Aesthetics and Natural Beauty

One of the primary attractions of building on volcanic land is the breathtaking scenery. Volcanoes often create dramatic landscapes featuring rugged terrain, lush greenery, and expansive vistas. The geothermal activity associated with volcanoes can also lead to natural hot springs, making these areas appealing for relaxation and tourism.

Accessibility to Resources

In many volcanic regions, the soil is rich in minerals, which can support lush vegetation and agriculture. This fertile land can lead to bountiful gardens and farms, providing homeowners with a sustainable source of food. Furthermore, volcanic rock is often readily available for construction, which can reduce material costs.

The Ease of Building

Availability of Materials

Building on volcanic land has its advantages, particularly concerning construction materials. Volcanic rock and ash can be utilized in various building techniques, such as using pumice for insulation or volcanic tuff for walls. These materials not only add a unique character to structures but can also offer thermal insulation, which is beneficial in both hot and cold climates.

Evolving Construction Techniques

Modern construction methods have adapted to the challenges posed by volcanic environments. Innovations in engineering have led to the development of more resilient building designs that can withstand potential volcanic hazards. These designs often incorporate flexible materials that can absorb shock and are anchored securely to resist ash accumulation.

Difficulties in Building

Soil Stability Concerns

While volcanic soil can be fertile, it may also pose significant challenges. The stability of the ground can be unpredictable, particularly in the event of an eruption or landslide. Builders must conduct thorough geological surveys to assess the risks and may need to invest in specialized foundation designs to ensure the structural integrity of their homes.

Regulatory Hurdles

Building on volcanic land often involves navigating complex zoning laws and regulations. Many areas have strict building codes to minimize risk, which can complicate the construction process. Additionally, obtaining the necessary permits may require extensive environmental assessments and community consultations, adding time and expense to any building project.

Dangers of Building on Volcanic Land

Eruptions and Lava Flows

The most apparent danger of living near a volcano is the potential for eruptions. Lava flows, pyroclastic flows, and ashfall can devastate nearby communities. Even small eruptions can disrupt life, damaging homes, infrastructure, and ecosystems.

Volcanic Gases

Volcanic eruptions release harmful gases, such as sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide. Prolonged exposure to these gases can pose health risks to residents, including respiratory problems. Builders must consider ventilation and air quality in their designs, especially in areas with a history of volcanic activity.

Earthquakes

Volcanic areas are often seismically active, meaning earthquakes can occur with little warning. These tremors can further destabilize structures, especially if not designed to withstand seismic forces. Homeowners should be prepared for potential quakes, reinforcing their homes accordingly.

Safety Tips for Residents

Stay Informed

Residents in volcanic areas should stay informed about their local volcano's activity. Subscribing to alerts from geological agencies can provide essential updates on seismic activity and potential eruptions. Understanding the volcano's history and behavior can help homeowners assess their risk levels.

Emergency Preparedness Plans

Having a comprehensive emergency plan is vital. This plan should include:

1. Evacuation Routes: Know multiple ways to evacuate your area. Make sure everyone in your household is familiar with these routes.
2. Emergency Kits: Prepare an emergency kit that includes essential supplies such as food, water, first aid items, flashlights, and batteries.
3. Communication Plans: Establish a communication plan with family and friends. Ensure that everyone knows how to reach each other during an emergency.

Building Resilient Structures

Investing in resilient construction methods can significantly enhance safety. This includes:

- Reinforced Foundations: Use deep and wide foundations that can withstand seismic activity and ground shifts.
- Volcanic Ash-Resistant Materials: Consider using materials designed to resist the corrosive effects of volcanic ash.
- Ventilation Systems: Install ventilation systems to manage indoor air quality and reduce exposure to volcanic gases.

Community Engagement

Engage with local authorities and community groups focused on disaster preparedness. Participating in community drills and training can help ensure that everyone knows what to do in case of an eruption.

Insurance Considerations

Lastly, review your insurance coverage. Many standard policies may not cover volcanic eruptions or the damage they cause. Seek out specialized insurance that addresses these risks, ensuring that you are adequately protected.

Conclusion

Building on volcanic land offers unique opportunities and challenges. While the beauty and resources of these areas can be alluring, prospective homeowners must navigate the potential hazards and difficulties associated with volcanic environments. By prioritizing safety, staying informed, and preparing for emergencies, residents can enjoy the beauty of their surroundings while mitigating the risks associated with living near a volcano. The key is to balance the allure of these landscapes with prudent planning and preparedness.

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