The Human Side of Volcano Monitoring

"I feel like we are making a change in the way that people now see the volcanoes and see the earthquakes in El Salvador. So in that sense, I think we are making a a big change.” Adonay Martinez Coto and Susana Delgado discuss their Geoscientists Without Borders project to improve seismic monitoring around Santa Ana volcano in El Salvador. Their work shows how geophysics can move beyond instruments and data to help communities understand hazards, prepare for future activity, and see science as part of daily life. The project also shows why community-centered geophysics matters: instruments in schools and local spaces can turn monitoring into education, awareness, and preparedness. For listeners, it is a clear example of how applied geoscience can serve people before the next disaster happens. LINKS * Learn more about GWB and donate today at https://seg.org/programs/geoscientists-without-borders/ * Learn more about Adonay and Susana's work at https://seg.org/gwb_projects/el-salvador/ KEY TAKEAWAYS > Community trust is part of the science: Volcano monitoring becomes more valuable when schools, local businesses, agencies, and residents understand why the instruments are there and how the data can help them. > Better data can change preparedness: A stronger seismic network near Santa Ana volcano can help scientists distinguish between tectonic and volcanic earthquakes, improving awareness of what may be happening beneath the surface. > Field geophysics requires more than technical training: The project pushed students to learn instrumentation, networking, communication, and community engagement, showing where future workforce needs are growing. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.