Perception of volcanic risk in communities close to a monogenetic volcanic field: the case of Olot (Garrotxa Volcanic Field, Catalonia)

Abstract

Nowadays, volcanic eruptions pose a significant threat to society, particularly in monogenetic volcanic fields where prolonged recurrence periods lead to increased human settlements in their vicinity. This is mostly attributed to a false sense of security within the community potentially exposed to a future eruptive event. Such misconceptions often result in a lack of preparedness programs and resilience capabilities for potential future eruptions. In this context, the city of Olot (~34,400 inhabitants, Catalonia, Spain), located within the Garrotxa volcanic field, serves as an example of human settlement around monogenetic volcanoes, which the last known eruption occurred ~ 10.4 – 15.7 ka ago. Although communities residing in this volcanic field demonstrate a sound understanding of their environment, there is a prevalent misconception regarding volcanic hazards, which often leads to perceive the area as inactive or even extinct.  To evaluate the perception of volcanic risk among the population of Olot, we have conducted a survey segmented by age groups. The main objectives are: (i) identifying knowledge gaps and misconceptions within the population; (ii) analyzing the factors most relevant in determining risk perception within the community; (iii) contributing to the assessment of the population's resilience in the face of a future eruptive event: and (iv) ultimately evaluating the contrast between the perception of the Olot community and its actual volcanic risk. This work was funded by the BECAS CHILE- ANID, PhD Scholarship Abroad, announcement 2022/Folio 72220257.