The Deadliest Field Disaster in a Volcanological Expedition (1991) – Mount Unzen

Описание: On June 3rd, 1991, what was believed to be a safe observation zone on Mount Unzen, Japan, became the site of the deadliest field disaster in the history of volcanology.

Photographers, journalists, firefighters, and some of the world’s most respected volcanologists — including Katia and Maurice Krafft, and Harry Glicken — gathered to document an active eruption. Within minutes, a sudden collapse of the lava dome triggered a lateral pyroclastic flow that defied every prediction.

In less than 90 seconds, the volcano erased the road, the vehicles, and the people standing there.

This documentary reconstructs the events leading up to the tragedy, explains why the so-called “safe zone” failed, and examines how Mount Unzen permanently changed volcanic risk assessment, scientific fieldwork, and hazard management around the world.

Through eyewitness accounts, scientific analysis, and historical context, this episode explores the thin line between observation and catastrophe — and the price paid when nature moves faster than human understanding.

This is not just the story of an eruption.
It is the story of an expedition that ended in silence.

📍 Location: Mount Unzen, Japan
📅 Date: June 3rd, 1991
🔥 Event: Pyroclastic flow disaster