Human consequences
Martinique’s most populous town disappears in a few minutes.
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VolcanoEruption of Mount Pelée
28,000Deaths
Not quantifiedDisplaced / homeless
Not quantifiedEstimated cost
- Almost the entire population of Saint-Pierre; among the very few survivors was the prisoner Ludger Sylbaris.
A pyroclastic flow rushes down the volcano and wipes out Saint-Pierre, nicknamed the “Little Paris of the Caribbean”, within minutes.
Consequences
Environmental consequences
Geologist Alfred Lacroix studies the phenomenon and coins the term “nuée ardente” (glowing cloud), adopted worldwide.
Economic consequences
Saint-Pierre loses its role as economic capital to Fort-de-France.
Political consequences
The authorities had played down the danger ahead of the legislative elections, due on 11 May.
Further reading
Similar disasters
- Eruption of KrakatoaVolcano · Indonesia (Dutch East Indies)1883
- Eruption of Mount St. HelensVolcano · United States1980
- Armero tragedyVolcano · Colombia1985
- Eruption of Mount TamboraVolcano · Indonesia (Dutch East Indies)1815
In the rankings : The worst disasters in France No. 2The deadliest volcanic eruptions No. 3
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