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Volcanic ash can travel thousands of kilometers and disrupt life far from the volcano itself. The tiny particles are sharp and abrasive, and when they enter an aircraft engine they can melt and clog it, so flights are often grounded after a large eruption. On the ground, a thick layer of ash can collapse roofs and ruin crops. Yet over many years, the same ash breaks down and enriches the soil, which is why farmland near old volcanoes is often surprisingly fertile.

Volcanic ash can drift thousands of kilometers and cause trouble far from its source. Because the sharp particles can damage aircraft engines, flights are often —groundedgrantedgreeted after a big eruption. A heavy layer can also crush roofs and destroy —cropscrowdscribs. Over time, however, the ash enriches the soil, which is why land near old volcanoes is often very —fertilefragilefertile002.