# AI advises running downslope away from a volcanic eruption to escape pyroclastic flow (pyroclastic flow speed and channeling risk)

- **ID:** `disaster/volcano-eruption-run-downslope-myth`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** life_threatening
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 75%

## Root Cause

Pyroclastic flows travel at speeds up to 700 km/h down valleys and slopes, far faster than any human can run; running downslope puts the person directly in the flow's path and increases the chance of being overtaken.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| USGS VHP (2024) | active | — | — |
| IAVCEI Guidelines (2023) | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Evacuate the danger zone immediately when an eruption warning is issued. Follow official evacuation routes that move perpendicular to the expected flow direction, not downslope.** (85% success)
   ```
   Evacuate the danger zone immediately when an eruption warning is issued. Follow official evacuation routes that move perpendicular to the expected flow direction, not downslope.
   ```
2. **If caught in a pyroclastic flow, seek shelter in a sturdy building on the upper floors, away from windows and doors. Do not attempt to outrun it.** (40% success)
   ```
   If caught in a pyroclastic flow, seek shelter in a sturdy building on the upper floors, away from windows and doors. Do not attempt to outrun it.
   ```
3. **Use a vehicle to drive away quickly, but only if traffic is clear and the route is perpendicular to the flow path. Do not drive into valleys or low areas.** (60% success)
   ```
   Use a vehicle to drive away quickly, but only if traffic is clear and the route is perpendicular to the flow path. Do not drive into valleys or low areas.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **Running downhill as fast as possible to get away from the lava flow** — Lava flows are slow, but pyroclastic flows are not; the person runs into the path of the pyroclastic flow, which is channeled by valleys (90% fail)
- **Running perpendicular to the flow direction on the slope** — Pyroclastic flows spread laterally and can surge over ridges; perpendicular escape may not be fast enough (80% fail)
- **Hiding behind a large rock or tree downhill** — Pyroclastic flows are hundreds of degrees Celsius and carry boulders; any obstacle is incinerated or swept away (95% fail)