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These are the user uploaded subtitles that are being translated: 1 00:00:02,703 --> 00:00:06,106 NARRATOR: In Mexico, millions of people live in the shadow 2 00:00:06,106 --> 00:00:08,742 of one of the Earth's most dangerous forces, 3 00:00:08,742 --> 00:00:11,411 where volcanoes have buried villages... 4 00:00:11,411 --> 00:00:14,815 TOM: This is all that is left of the village of San Juan. 5 00:00:14,815 --> 00:00:17,517 NARRATOR: ...and influenced culture. 6 00:00:17,517 --> 00:00:22,089 TOM: This is the plant that's being used to produce tequila. 7 00:00:22,089 --> 00:00:25,559 NARRATOR: Where we get a bird's eye view at danger... 8 00:00:25,559 --> 00:00:29,329 TOM: I don't know if I want it to erupt right now or not. 9 00:00:29,329 --> 00:00:32,799 NARRATOR: ...and witness the raw power of Volcano de Colima at night. 10 00:00:34,334 --> 00:00:40,073 TOM: Looked like a fire fountain probably 500 meters high. 11 00:00:40,073 --> 00:00:45,078 ♪♪♪ 12 00:00:45,078 --> 00:00:50,083 ♪♪♪ 13 00:00:50,083 --> 00:00:55,088 ♪♪♪ 14 00:00:55,088 --> 00:01:00,027 ♪♪♪ 15 00:01:00,027 --> 00:01:05,032 ♪♪♪ 16 00:01:05,032 --> 00:01:10,037 ♪♪♪ 17 00:01:10,037 --> 00:01:15,042 ♪♪♪ 18 00:01:15,042 --> 00:01:18,645 ♪♪♪ 19 00:01:18,645 --> 00:01:23,350 ♪♪♪ 20 00:01:23,350 --> 00:01:26,720 NARRATOR: The Earth's continents are moving. 21 00:01:26,720 --> 00:01:28,722 Between North and South America, 22 00:01:28,722 --> 00:01:32,125 Mexico is being torn apart, bent, 23 00:01:32,125 --> 00:01:34,428 and thrust upwards on a slow-motion tectonic 24 00:01:34,428 --> 00:01:38,265 roller coaster. 25 00:01:38,265 --> 00:01:42,502 One of the by-products of this movement is volcanism, 26 00:01:42,502 --> 00:01:46,073 and Mexico has two of North America's most active 27 00:01:46,073 --> 00:01:49,743 and dangerous volcanoes. 28 00:01:49,743 --> 00:01:52,446 Millions of people live in their shadows. 29 00:01:52,446 --> 00:01:54,715 They largely rely on faith 30 00:01:54,715 --> 00:01:57,551 and Mexico's civil protection to keep them safe 31 00:01:57,551 --> 00:02:01,154 from the dangers posed by these volatile giants. 32 00:02:09,262 --> 00:02:15,268 NARRATOR: This is Puebla, Mexico's fourth largest city. 33 00:02:15,268 --> 00:02:19,639 1.4 million people live beside the country's biggest, 34 00:02:19,639 --> 00:02:24,378 Popocatepetl, which translates into "smoky mountain." 35 00:02:24,378 --> 00:02:29,349 It's an active volcano, with an extremely violent past. 36 00:02:31,151 --> 00:02:33,587 NARRATOR: Volcanoes like Popo are of major interest 37 00:02:33,587 --> 00:02:35,756 to volcanologists like Dr. Tom Pfeiffer. 38 00:02:37,124 --> 00:02:40,761 TOM: Popocatepetl is a massive stratovolcano. 39 00:02:40,761 --> 00:02:44,297 In fact, it is not only one of the largest 40 00:02:44,297 --> 00:02:47,768 and most active volcanoes in volume and by activity, 41 00:02:47,768 --> 00:02:51,304 but it also is the second highest active volcano 42 00:02:51,304 --> 00:02:54,107 in the whole of North America. 43 00:02:55,675 --> 00:02:59,212 NARRATOR: Popocatepetl is a highly explosive volcano. 44 00:02:59,212 --> 00:03:01,214 It has had 15 major eruptions 45 00:03:01,214 --> 00:03:05,185 since the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century... 46 00:03:05,185 --> 00:03:09,656 and five cataclysmic eruptions in the last 10,000 years. 47 00:03:09,656 --> 00:03:14,461 Eruptions so massive that the volcano blew itself apart. 48 00:03:16,396 --> 00:03:20,333 NARRATOR: For sixty years, Popocatepetl remained relatively quiet, 49 00:03:20,333 --> 00:03:25,138 but re-awoke violently in December of 1994. 50 00:03:26,339 --> 00:03:29,376 TOM: The first eruptions were quite powerful 51 00:03:29,376 --> 00:03:34,247 and sent bombs to three, four kilometers' distance. 52 00:03:34,247 --> 00:03:37,417 [Distant explosion] 53 00:03:44,257 --> 00:03:48,628 TOM: We just saw one of these explosions that occur 54 00:03:48,628 --> 00:03:53,300 maybe on average 10 times a day at the moment. 55 00:03:53,300 --> 00:03:57,070 You see an ash plume that has risen to approximately 56 00:03:57,070 --> 00:03:59,773 I'd guess one kilometer above the crater. 57 00:03:59,773 --> 00:04:02,409 So nothing really that small. 58 00:04:02,409 --> 00:04:06,213 If you had been very close it would be quite impressive. 59 00:04:06,213 --> 00:04:10,050 NARRATOR: Since 2013 it has been erupting consistently, 60 00:04:10,050 --> 00:04:12,752 and lately activity has been on the rise 61 00:04:12,752 --> 00:04:15,122 raising new fears that a major eruption 62 00:04:15,122 --> 00:04:17,724 might be on the horizon. 63 00:04:17,724 --> 00:04:21,328 TOM: This volcano has clearly the potential to threaten 64 00:04:21,328 --> 00:04:24,464 the area where we are, but also beyond. 65 00:04:24,464 --> 00:04:27,100 Parts of Mexico City are built on deposits 66 00:04:27,100 --> 00:04:30,036 from Popocatepetl, showing that in the past 67 00:04:30,036 --> 00:04:32,172 eruptions have been able to affect that area. 68 00:04:32,172 --> 00:04:35,609 So it is a volcano that is on the top priority list 69 00:04:35,609 --> 00:04:38,478 of potential natural disasters to monitor. 70 00:04:41,214 --> 00:04:43,717 NARRATOR: Puebla was founded nearly 500 years ago 71 00:04:43,717 --> 00:04:46,219 by Spanish colonialists. 72 00:04:46,219 --> 00:04:48,488 They had no way of knowing the extreme danger 73 00:04:48,488 --> 00:04:50,423 the volcano posed... 74 00:04:50,423 --> 00:04:52,392 that buried beneath their feet 75 00:04:52,392 --> 00:04:56,363 lay the remnants of the ancient centre of Cholula, 76 00:04:56,363 --> 00:04:58,331 a historic city that was wiped out 77 00:04:58,331 --> 00:05:02,002 by an eruption of Popocatepetl. 78 00:05:03,503 --> 00:05:06,439 NARRATOR: The event was rated as a Plinian eruption 79 00:05:06,439 --> 00:05:10,477 similar to the colossal event that buried Pompeii. 80 00:05:10,477 --> 00:05:13,113 Plinian Eruptions generate massive ash clouds 81 00:05:13,113 --> 00:05:16,149 and pyroclastic flows: 82 00:05:16,149 --> 00:05:18,185 hot avalanches of debris and ash 83 00:05:18,185 --> 00:05:21,321 that destroy everything in their path. 84 00:05:25,492 --> 00:05:27,761 NARRATOR: When the Spanish colonials started to build 85 00:05:27,761 --> 00:05:30,096 the Our Lady of the Virgin Sanctuary 86 00:05:30,096 --> 00:05:33,500 they did not realize that the hill they chose to build on 87 00:05:33,500 --> 00:05:37,204 was the ruins of Mexico's largest pre-Hispanic pyramid 88 00:05:37,204 --> 00:05:40,774 buried beneath ash and debris. 89 00:05:47,647 --> 00:05:51,284 TOM: I think here's a very interesting spot 90 00:05:51,284 --> 00:05:56,256 because we see the actual deposit of the ash flow 91 00:05:56,256 --> 00:05:59,125 that invaded the city. 92 00:05:59,125 --> 00:06:02,462 You see it's full of pottery fragments and debris 93 00:06:02,462 --> 00:06:04,331 from building material. 94 00:06:04,331 --> 00:06:08,134 This came racing down and destroyed anything 95 00:06:08,134 --> 00:06:10,503 that was rising higher than a certain level. 96 00:06:10,503 --> 00:06:15,508 ♪♪♪ 97 00:06:15,508 --> 00:06:20,513 ♪♪♪ 98 00:06:20,513 --> 00:06:22,682 ♪♪♪ 99 00:06:22,682 --> 00:06:26,186 NARRATOR: Because of the significance of the 16th century church, 100 00:06:26,186 --> 00:06:29,589 only part of the pyramid has been excavated. 101 00:06:31,091 --> 00:06:33,660 NARRATOR: To access the structure, archaeologists cut tunnels 102 00:06:33,660 --> 00:06:37,364 into the volcanic debris. 103 00:06:43,169 --> 00:06:46,072 NARRATOR: This archaeological site is one of several around Popo 104 00:06:46,072 --> 00:06:48,575 that were buried in this eruption. 105 00:06:48,575 --> 00:06:52,445 In places the debris is two stories deep. 106 00:06:58,785 --> 00:07:00,720 TOM: I get this claustrophobic feeling 107 00:07:00,720 --> 00:07:05,058 with these little alleys going here and there. 108 00:07:05,058 --> 00:07:07,027 I think I have the sense of orientation. 109 00:07:07,027 --> 00:07:09,429 We came from there, so we get back onto 110 00:07:09,429 --> 00:07:13,500 the main tunnel over there, yeah. 111 00:07:13,500 --> 00:07:16,636 An interesting, eerie feeling. 112 00:07:16,636 --> 00:07:19,606 NARRATOR: Most of the tunnels are bricked up for support. 113 00:07:19,606 --> 00:07:22,575 What Tom is looking for is evidence that the pyramid 114 00:07:22,575 --> 00:07:27,047 was buried by ash fall or a pyroclastic flow. 115 00:07:27,047 --> 00:07:30,016 TOM: Look, this is part of the old structure. 116 00:07:30,016 --> 00:07:31,051 It's clearly built. 117 00:07:31,051 --> 00:07:35,388 And this is the loose deposit, the ignimbrite. 118 00:07:35,388 --> 00:07:38,358 NARRATOR: Ignimbrite is formed from compacted hot ash 119 00:07:38,358 --> 00:07:40,226 and material that has flowed off the volcano 120 00:07:40,226 --> 00:07:43,063 during an eruption. 121 00:07:43,063 --> 00:07:48,301 TOM: You can see the marks where the deposit was removed. 122 00:07:48,301 --> 00:07:50,437 NARRATOR: The remnants of these ancient cities 123 00:07:50,437 --> 00:07:52,505 are a potent reminder of what could be 124 00:07:52,505 --> 00:07:55,709 if Popo erupts again. 125 00:07:55,709 --> 00:07:57,677 The worst-case scenario would be the collapse 126 00:07:57,677 --> 00:08:01,448 of the cone during a major eruption. 127 00:08:01,448 --> 00:08:04,984 But this is not the only hazard they pose. 128 00:08:04,984 --> 00:08:07,554 A volcano's hydrothermal system effect 129 00:08:07,554 --> 00:08:10,256 runs deep underground and often extends 130 00:08:10,256 --> 00:08:13,360 beyond the volcano's structure. 131 00:08:13,360 --> 00:08:16,229 Popo's underground system is so massive 132 00:08:16,229 --> 00:08:19,332 that parts of Mexico City have been built on it. 133 00:08:19,332 --> 00:08:21,768 This means that there can be far-reaching effects 134 00:08:21,768 --> 00:08:24,437 beyond the normal eruption behavior. 135 00:08:26,573 --> 00:08:28,675 NARRATOR: Buried within the crowded city, 136 00:08:28,675 --> 00:08:31,478 a geological feature said to be a volcano 137 00:08:31,478 --> 00:08:35,582 has fascinated people for a thousand years. 138 00:08:35,582 --> 00:08:40,787 TOM: If it was a volcano you would expect lava, 139 00:08:40,787 --> 00:08:42,655 but this is definitely not lava. 140 00:08:42,655 --> 00:08:45,625 So, if you look at this dented surface 141 00:08:45,625 --> 00:08:48,161 that's almost exactly what you would find 142 00:08:48,161 --> 00:08:50,730 in limestone areas where caustic processes 143 00:08:50,730 --> 00:08:53,767 chemically erode the limestone. 144 00:08:53,767 --> 00:08:56,703 Basically it's the same stuff you find in the tubes 145 00:08:56,703 --> 00:08:59,205 of your washing machine when you have 146 00:08:59,205 --> 00:09:03,543 hard mineral-rich water; it's deposits from water. 147 00:09:03,543 --> 00:09:05,678 NARRATOR: The cone does have a crater on the top 148 00:09:05,678 --> 00:09:08,548 that descends below ground level. 149 00:09:08,548 --> 00:09:10,650 It may not be from a volcano, 150 00:09:10,650 --> 00:09:15,288 but it is likely the by-product of one. 151 00:09:15,288 --> 00:09:18,091 As magma rises, it comes into contact 152 00:09:18,091 --> 00:09:21,094 with the area's hydrological system. 153 00:09:21,094 --> 00:09:23,463 Underground water is converted to steam 154 00:09:23,463 --> 00:09:26,999 and it can erupt as a geyser. 155 00:09:26,999 --> 00:09:32,038 TOM: It's said that it appeared in 1063 AD 156 00:09:32,038 --> 00:09:34,741 during an eruption of Popocatepetl. 157 00:09:34,741 --> 00:09:36,576 So from far maybe you would see steam, 158 00:09:36,576 --> 00:09:38,378 hot steam coming out from there 159 00:09:38,378 --> 00:09:41,080 that people would associate with volcanic activity. 160 00:09:46,419 --> 00:09:49,789 TOM: Here you see it very nicely, how this cone is built up 161 00:09:49,789 --> 00:09:53,726 by individual layers, some very thin like here, 162 00:09:53,726 --> 00:09:56,729 and you see those typical cinder structures: 163 00:09:56,729 --> 00:10:00,467 deposits left from water that was rich 164 00:10:00,467 --> 00:10:02,769 in mainly carbonites. 165 00:10:02,769 --> 00:10:05,638 So since its formation the hydrothermal system 166 00:10:05,638 --> 00:10:08,308 that once fed it has apparently changed again. 167 00:10:08,308 --> 00:10:11,344 But remember, it's a thousand years ago. 168 00:10:11,344 --> 00:10:14,080 It's rare you can go inside. 169 00:10:14,080 --> 00:10:19,085 ♪♪♪ 170 00:10:19,085 --> 00:10:26,559 ♪♪♪ 171 00:10:26,559 --> 00:10:28,761 NARRATOR: The probability of a geyser or a volcano 172 00:10:28,761 --> 00:10:31,564 opening in downtown Cholula or Mexico City 173 00:10:31,564 --> 00:10:33,500 is not very high. 174 00:10:33,500 --> 00:10:36,803 But it is possible. 175 00:10:36,803 --> 00:10:40,173 It happened eight hours away in Michocan State. 176 00:10:40,173 --> 00:10:44,177 In 1943, a fissure opened up in a Mexican corn field 177 00:10:44,177 --> 00:10:46,813 near the town of San Juan. 178 00:10:46,813 --> 00:10:49,382 TOM: A farmer was there planting his field 179 00:10:49,382 --> 00:10:52,819 and he witnessed the moment the volcano was born. 180 00:10:52,819 --> 00:10:55,321 Fissures opened, lava came out, 181 00:10:55,321 --> 00:10:58,157 and he probably probably witnessed rocks 182 00:10:58,157 --> 00:11:01,327 being blown out and eventually saw fire underneath. 183 00:11:01,327 --> 00:11:05,465 That must have been an amazing event. 184 00:11:05,465 --> 00:11:08,034 NARRATOR: The volcano is called Paricutin 185 00:11:08,034 --> 00:11:09,502 and it erupted for nine years 186 00:11:09,502 --> 00:11:12,038 before it went extinct. 187 00:11:12,038 --> 00:11:15,208 The event was a field day for scientists. 188 00:11:15,208 --> 00:11:17,577 It was the first time that a volcano had been witnessed 189 00:11:17,577 --> 00:11:21,381 from its birth to its death. 190 00:11:21,381 --> 00:11:23,182 CNN listed it as one of 191 00:11:23,182 --> 00:11:26,352 the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. 192 00:11:28,688 --> 00:11:31,324 NARRATOR: Paricutin's lava flow was slow enough 193 00:11:31,324 --> 00:11:34,227 that most of the people in the area were able to move away 194 00:11:34,227 --> 00:11:37,764 before the lava and ash destroyed their homes. 195 00:11:37,764 --> 00:11:40,266 With the exception of the stone church, 196 00:11:40,266 --> 00:11:44,337 Paricutin completely destroyed the town of San Juan. 197 00:11:44,337 --> 00:11:47,073 NARRATOR: Today marks the 72nd anniversary 198 00:11:47,073 --> 00:11:49,242 of the start of the eruption. 199 00:11:49,242 --> 00:11:52,245 As they do every year, the locals mark that day 200 00:11:52,245 --> 00:11:54,714 with celebrations. 201 00:11:54,714 --> 00:11:56,616 And the ruins of San Juan's church 202 00:11:56,616 --> 00:12:00,720 play a major part in that. 203 00:12:00,720 --> 00:12:03,489 To get to the church you can either walk for two hours 204 00:12:03,489 --> 00:12:06,459 or go by horseback. 205 00:12:06,726 --> 00:12:08,728 TOM: For me it's an adventure. 206 00:12:08,728 --> 00:12:11,764 I'm not very familiar with horses. 207 00:12:11,764 --> 00:12:13,466 Are you going to be okay? 208 00:12:13,466 --> 00:12:17,670 You're not going to throw me into the lava? 209 00:12:17,670 --> 00:12:20,773 Go, go... Go, yes. 210 00:12:20,773 --> 00:12:25,778 ♪♪♪ 211 00:12:25,778 --> 00:12:30,783 ♪♪♪ 212 00:12:30,783 --> 00:12:35,788 ♪♪♪ 213 00:12:35,788 --> 00:12:40,793 ♪♪♪ 214 00:12:40,793 --> 00:12:45,798 ♪♪♪ 215 00:12:45,798 --> 00:12:50,803 ♪♪♪ 216 00:12:50,803 --> 00:12:53,606 ♪♪♪ 217 00:12:53,606 --> 00:12:57,777 TOM: This is all what is left of the village of San Juan. 218 00:12:57,777 --> 00:13:00,213 The front part of the main church, with one tower, 219 00:13:00,213 --> 00:13:01,514 is still standing. 220 00:13:01,514 --> 00:13:04,050 Locally this is regarded as a miracle, 221 00:13:04,050 --> 00:13:06,052 that the lava flows consumed everything 222 00:13:06,052 --> 00:13:08,554 but spared at least part of the church. 223 00:13:08,554 --> 00:13:11,724 NARRATOR: Divine intervention might have played a part in it, 224 00:13:11,724 --> 00:13:14,093 but it's likely that the church's survival 225 00:13:14,093 --> 00:13:17,664 had a lot to do with its solid construction. 226 00:13:17,664 --> 00:13:19,298 The four spires were built 227 00:13:19,298 --> 00:13:21,534 from heavily reinforced concrete. 228 00:13:21,534 --> 00:13:23,336 It appears that was solid enough 229 00:13:23,336 --> 00:13:26,339 to provide enough resistance to divert the lava flow. 230 00:13:28,141 --> 00:13:30,443 NARRATOR: Although the spires were able to channel the lava 231 00:13:30,443 --> 00:13:32,278 around much of the church, 232 00:13:32,278 --> 00:13:34,547 lateral pressure became too great, 233 00:13:34,547 --> 00:13:37,183 causing the building to collapse. 234 00:13:37,183 --> 00:13:41,087 It was later covered in a second flow. 235 00:13:41,087 --> 00:13:46,492 TOM: I'm standing just above the height of the ceiling 236 00:13:46,492 --> 00:13:50,329 of the main ship on the first floor, 237 00:13:50,329 --> 00:13:54,333 so I can't actually see the ground but it's almost there. 238 00:13:54,333 --> 00:13:57,170 It must be seven, eight meters. 239 00:13:57,170 --> 00:14:01,708 So this gives you an idea of the thickness of the flow. 240 00:14:04,310 --> 00:14:07,580 NARRATOR: The original church altar is still intact. 241 00:14:07,580 --> 00:14:10,183 People from all over the region come here to thank God 242 00:14:10,183 --> 00:14:13,319 for sparing the people of San Juan. 243 00:14:15,588 --> 00:14:18,624 NARRATOR: When you look at the way the altar resisted the lava flows 244 00:14:18,624 --> 00:14:21,728 and destroyed much of the church and surrounding city, 245 00:14:21,728 --> 00:14:24,197 it is understandable why people consider this 246 00:14:24,197 --> 00:14:26,733 to be a miracle. 247 00:14:26,733 --> 00:14:31,671 [Speaking Spanish] 248 00:14:39,612 --> 00:14:42,181 NARRATOR: The eruption of Paricutin was so recent 249 00:14:42,181 --> 00:14:43,616 that there are still people in the area 250 00:14:43,616 --> 00:14:46,252 that remember the event. 251 00:14:48,154 --> 00:14:54,627 [Speaking Spanish] 252 00:14:54,627 --> 00:14:56,729 TOM: At the time of eruption he was 13 years old, 253 00:14:56,729 --> 00:14:58,698 lived in a village up there. 254 00:14:58,698 --> 00:15:02,769 People were quite afraid at that time. 255 00:15:02,769 --> 00:15:06,372 But they had sufficient time to evacuate their belongings, 256 00:15:06,372 --> 00:15:09,776 their goods; nobody was killed. 257 00:15:09,776 --> 00:15:12,545 He said it was constantly raining ash on the villages 258 00:15:12,545 --> 00:15:17,283 in the area and many houses collapsed 259 00:15:17,283 --> 00:15:21,454 because of the weight of the ash on the roofs. 260 00:15:22,388 --> 00:15:25,558 NARRATOR: Paricutin is what's known as a mono-genetic volcano 261 00:15:25,558 --> 00:15:27,593 or a cinder cone that only erupts 262 00:15:27,593 --> 00:15:30,596 once in its life and then dies. 263 00:15:32,165 --> 00:15:35,168 TOM: But if you look at the landscape here, 264 00:15:35,168 --> 00:15:39,505 it is actually the typical kind of activity 265 00:15:39,505 --> 00:15:43,743 in this part of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Zone. 266 00:15:43,743 --> 00:15:48,047 Each cone we see here is basically the result 267 00:15:48,047 --> 00:15:49,715 of a similar eruption than the one 268 00:15:49,715 --> 00:15:52,685 that occurred 72 years ago. 269 00:15:53,786 --> 00:15:56,589 NARRATOR: When activity returns, it chooses a new conduit 270 00:15:56,589 --> 00:16:00,393 to erupt from, creating a new cinder cone 271 00:16:00,393 --> 00:16:02,728 and that can be anywhere within the vast area 272 00:16:02,728 --> 00:16:06,566 known as a volcanic field. 273 00:16:06,566 --> 00:16:09,035 Usually a mono-genetic field has between 274 00:16:09,035 --> 00:16:11,671 10 and 100 volcanoes. 275 00:16:11,671 --> 00:16:15,308 But here in Mexico it's unusually large. 276 00:16:15,308 --> 00:16:17,476 There are more than a thousand small cinder cones 277 00:16:17,476 --> 00:16:19,779 within the field. 278 00:16:19,779 --> 00:16:24,217 Science still doesn't know why magma erupts like this. 279 00:16:24,217 --> 00:16:27,053 The working theory is that the ground is soft 280 00:16:27,053 --> 00:16:29,522 and there is an unusually high number of underground faults 281 00:16:29,522 --> 00:16:32,458 or fractures so that the magma has easy routes 282 00:16:32,458 --> 00:16:36,195 to the surface. 283 00:16:36,195 --> 00:16:39,298 TOM: Paricutin over nine years erupted an estimated total 284 00:16:39,298 --> 00:16:41,734 of 1.5 cubic kilometers, 285 00:16:41,734 --> 00:16:46,272 which is quite a sizable eruption, actually. 286 00:16:46,272 --> 00:16:48,541 NARRATOR: After spending time looking at the way lava flows 287 00:16:48,541 --> 00:16:51,344 reformed the area, Tom continues on 288 00:16:51,344 --> 00:16:54,247 to explore Paricuti-n's crater. 289 00:17:02,355 --> 00:17:05,258 NARRATOR: It's a short trip, just about half an hour, 290 00:17:05,258 --> 00:17:11,063 but it's a steep and arduous climb. 291 00:17:11,063 --> 00:17:16,068 ♪♪♪ 292 00:17:16,068 --> 00:17:21,140 ♪♪♪ 293 00:17:21,140 --> 00:17:23,442 TOM: So this is it, where during nine years 294 00:17:23,442 --> 00:17:27,280 all this ash that we see covering the slopes, 295 00:17:27,280 --> 00:17:30,516 the entire landscape around the lava field, essentially. 296 00:17:31,717 --> 00:17:33,653 NARRATOR: By the end of the first day, 297 00:17:33,653 --> 00:17:36,689 the cone was already five stories high. 298 00:17:36,689 --> 00:17:40,993 The eruption intensified as time went on. 299 00:17:44,530 --> 00:17:49,335 TOM: There's still a lot of heat stored in the lower layers. 300 00:17:49,335 --> 00:17:52,571 When rainwater gets into contact with the still-hot rocks 301 00:17:52,571 --> 00:17:55,408 it is transformed into steam and comes out here 302 00:17:55,408 --> 00:17:58,244 along small fissures. 303 00:18:01,380 --> 00:18:02,715 TOM: In terms of the lifespan of a volcano, 304 00:18:02,715 --> 00:18:04,684 this one had a very short one. 305 00:18:04,684 --> 00:18:08,220 Typically volcanoes live for hundreds of thousands of years 306 00:18:08,220 --> 00:18:11,023 and this one just nine years. 307 00:18:11,657 --> 00:18:14,560 NARRATOR: If this volcanic field ever comes active again 308 00:18:14,560 --> 00:18:18,464 it is likely that scientists will know ahead of time. 309 00:18:18,464 --> 00:18:21,167 As magma rises from deep within the earth, 310 00:18:21,167 --> 00:18:23,402 it will generate earthquakes as it fractures rock 311 00:18:23,402 --> 00:18:25,738 on its way to the surface. 312 00:18:25,738 --> 00:18:29,342 TOM: Modern seismic networks should be able to locate 313 00:18:29,342 --> 00:18:31,277 progressively shallower earthquakes, 314 00:18:31,277 --> 00:18:34,413 which is the clear signature of magma 315 00:18:34,413 --> 00:18:37,483 intruding from the pressure towards the surface. 316 00:18:37,483 --> 00:18:39,485 NARRATOR: By tracking the depth as it progresses upwards, 317 00:18:39,485 --> 00:18:41,687 scientists will not only get an indication 318 00:18:41,687 --> 00:18:46,325 of when an eruption will occur, but also where. 319 00:18:46,325 --> 00:18:49,195 TOM: The least thing you want is a cone like this forming 320 00:18:49,195 --> 00:18:53,699 under a village and being not prepared. 321 00:19:02,174 --> 00:19:05,011 NARRATOR: When people hear about volcanoes erupting, 322 00:19:05,011 --> 00:19:09,081 the general image is of lava flows rushing towards a city, 323 00:19:09,081 --> 00:19:12,251 or burying being buried by ash and pyroclasitc flows. 324 00:19:17,723 --> 00:19:19,992 NARRATOR: But most of the time, the real damage 325 00:19:19,992 --> 00:19:24,263 from volcanic eruptions is from the ash. 326 00:19:24,263 --> 00:19:27,066 Ash from nearby volcanoes can collapse roofs, 327 00:19:27,066 --> 00:19:29,535 or even bury towns. 328 00:19:29,535 --> 00:19:33,439 But over time that ash becomes a benefit. 329 00:19:33,439 --> 00:19:36,509 Rising out of the Tequila Valley 330 00:19:36,509 --> 00:19:39,145 is the volcano that bears its name. 331 00:19:39,145 --> 00:19:41,414 NARRATOR: Volcanic ash is nutrient-rich, 332 00:19:41,414 --> 00:19:44,417 which makes it ideal for agriculture. 333 00:19:44,417 --> 00:19:46,786 Around the world volcanic ash is prized 334 00:19:46,786 --> 00:19:50,322 for the flavor it gives to its crops. 335 00:19:50,322 --> 00:19:53,526 Tom heads to central Mexico where an extinct volcano 336 00:19:53,526 --> 00:19:57,063 is at the heart of one of Mexico's most iconic products: 337 00:19:57,063 --> 00:20:00,132 tequila. 338 00:20:08,074 --> 00:20:12,278 NARRATOR: Rising over the valley is the Tequila volcano. 339 00:20:12,278 --> 00:20:15,181 Ash from an eruption 200,000 years ago 340 00:20:15,181 --> 00:20:18,084 created the fertile valley which today is lined 341 00:20:18,084 --> 00:20:20,753 with rows of a native spiky plant. 342 00:20:22,788 --> 00:20:26,625 TOM: This is the plant that's been used to produce tequila. 343 00:20:26,625 --> 00:20:30,329 It's a special variety of the agave family, 344 00:20:30,329 --> 00:20:33,666 the so-called blue agave because of its color. 345 00:20:33,666 --> 00:20:37,369 You have to be really careful with these 346 00:20:37,369 --> 00:20:40,673 extremely sharp points of the leaves. 347 00:20:40,673 --> 00:20:43,476 You can easily... 348 00:20:43,476 --> 00:20:44,710 They will just punch through your skin. 349 00:20:44,710 --> 00:20:47,780 I have a little cut here. 350 00:20:47,780 --> 00:20:51,383 NARRATOR: Tom is at the tequila producers of Tres Tonos, 351 00:20:51,383 --> 00:20:54,086 or "The Three Tonys," a medium-size producer 352 00:20:54,086 --> 00:20:56,856 in the Tequila region. 353 00:20:56,856 --> 00:20:59,792 These plants are blue agave and are a succulent, 354 00:20:59,792 --> 00:21:02,027 not a cactus. 355 00:21:02,027 --> 00:21:03,629 The difference is that the moisture is stored 356 00:21:03,629 --> 00:21:08,234 in the leaves, and not in the stems or trunks. 357 00:21:08,234 --> 00:21:11,036 The blue agave plant prefers the high altitudes 358 00:21:11,036 --> 00:21:14,073 found in this region of Mexico. 359 00:21:14,073 --> 00:21:16,408 They can grow to the height, and equal the weight 360 00:21:16,408 --> 00:21:18,677 of an adult human. 361 00:21:20,646 --> 00:21:23,082 NARRATOR: The method of growing and harvesting has remained 362 00:21:23,082 --> 00:21:25,784 unchanged for centuries. 363 00:21:25,784 --> 00:21:29,622 The plants are cared for and harvested by Jimador's. 364 00:21:29,622 --> 00:21:31,557 These men have passed down their knowledge 365 00:21:31,557 --> 00:21:34,160 about the blue agave from father to son 366 00:21:34,160 --> 00:21:37,096 for generations. 367 00:21:37,096 --> 00:21:40,499 TOM: What we are looking at is actually a tradition 368 00:21:40,499 --> 00:21:44,303 that has been around for almost 500 years. 369 00:21:44,303 --> 00:21:49,608 Since 1542 was the first recorded production of tequila, 370 00:21:49,608 --> 00:21:51,844 and since tequila has become so famous 371 00:21:51,844 --> 00:21:55,814 it has also become a symbol of Mexico. 372 00:21:55,814 --> 00:21:59,218 It requires a lot of skill and strength 373 00:21:59,218 --> 00:22:03,189 and it's usually taught from father to son. 374 00:22:06,025 --> 00:22:08,427 NARRATOR: The agave takes between seven and nine years 375 00:22:08,427 --> 00:22:10,763 to mature before they are harvested. 376 00:22:10,763 --> 00:22:14,233 [Inaudible chatter] 377 00:22:22,641 --> 00:22:26,545 TOM: Oh, this is very strong. 378 00:22:28,380 --> 00:22:30,549 So if they can do 300 a day, 379 00:22:30,549 --> 00:22:35,387 I probably can do five at this speed. 380 00:22:44,763 --> 00:22:47,466 TOM: I thought I was getting close 381 00:22:47,466 --> 00:22:51,270 but actually this seems to be the toughest part. 382 00:22:51,270 --> 00:22:55,774 No, this is not for me... 383 00:22:57,509 --> 00:22:59,245 Por favor. 384 00:23:00,512 --> 00:23:03,415 TOM: It looks effortless almost. 385 00:23:03,415 --> 00:23:05,317 As he does it, yeah, he just flips it over. 386 00:23:21,533 --> 00:23:23,636 NARRATOR: The agave hearts are taken to the plant 387 00:23:23,636 --> 00:23:26,105 where they are cooked in autoclaves and then crushed 388 00:23:26,105 --> 00:23:28,240 to extract the juices. 389 00:23:28,240 --> 00:23:31,210 The juice is then fermented. 390 00:23:32,611 --> 00:23:36,782 TOM: Inside here is the juice, and it's fermenting. 391 00:23:36,782 --> 00:23:40,252 It's so powerful to see, it reminds of a hot spring 392 00:23:40,252 --> 00:23:42,288 at a volcano, actually. 393 00:23:42,288 --> 00:23:44,456 NARRATOR: After the fermenting stage, the liquid is tested 394 00:23:44,456 --> 00:23:46,592 for its alcohol content. 395 00:23:46,592 --> 00:23:49,328 This process takes 72 hours. 396 00:23:49,328 --> 00:23:53,432 TOM: He's measuring the density of the liquid, 397 00:23:53,432 --> 00:23:57,136 which is directly proportionate to the content of alcohol. 398 00:23:57,136 --> 00:24:00,639 Because alcohol is light, as fermentation goes on 399 00:24:00,639 --> 00:24:04,343 more alcohol is being produced and the liquid becomes lighter. 400 00:24:04,343 --> 00:24:07,146 So during the 72 hours, 401 00:24:07,146 --> 00:24:12,017 this floating meter will slowly sink 402 00:24:12,017 --> 00:24:16,755 as the density of the liquid goes down. 403 00:24:16,755 --> 00:24:20,125 So at the time it will be here, 404 00:24:20,125 --> 00:24:25,564 that means he knows that it contains 55% alcohol 405 00:24:25,564 --> 00:24:27,366 and is ready to be distilled. 406 00:24:29,802 --> 00:24:33,372 NARRATOR: Mexico has the Origin of Denomination for tequila, 407 00:24:33,372 --> 00:24:36,041 which means to be classified as authentic 408 00:24:36,041 --> 00:24:40,312 it must be produced in one of the certified growing locations 409 00:24:40,312 --> 00:24:43,482 and must meet a certain standard of quality. 410 00:24:55,427 --> 00:24:59,998 TOM: So of course the very final step is actually to drink it. 411 00:25:02,067 --> 00:25:03,535 BOTH: Salud. 412 00:25:07,272 --> 00:25:09,375 TOM: Mmm, I like that one. 413 00:25:09,375 --> 00:25:13,779 It's a bit smoother and it has a slight woody taste. 414 00:25:13,779 --> 00:25:17,216 We are at the foot of Tequila Volcano, 415 00:25:17,216 --> 00:25:19,284 an extinct stratovolcano, 416 00:25:19,284 --> 00:25:21,153 which has fertilized with its lava flows 417 00:25:21,153 --> 00:25:24,056 and ash deposits this valley, 418 00:25:24,056 --> 00:25:29,128 making the perfect ground for the production of tequila. 419 00:25:29,128 --> 00:25:31,263 And now we are here and enjoying one of these bottles, 420 00:25:31,263 --> 00:25:33,432 well part of it. 421 00:25:33,432 --> 00:25:35,033 Salud. 422 00:25:38,470 --> 00:25:41,473 TOM: Mmm. 423 00:25:41,473 --> 00:25:43,475 That's very smooth, this one. 424 00:25:45,511 --> 00:25:48,247 NARRATOR: While the Tequila region remains quiet, 425 00:25:48,247 --> 00:25:52,618 Mexico's other active volcano is anything but. 426 00:25:52,618 --> 00:25:56,188 Volcano de Colima, or "the Colima volcano" 427 00:25:56,188 --> 00:25:59,191 has been increasing in activity. 428 00:25:59,191 --> 00:26:01,160 In the three weeks before Tom's arrival 429 00:26:01,160 --> 00:26:04,062 Colima has had some powerful eruptions, 430 00:26:04,062 --> 00:26:08,333 raising serious concerns. 431 00:26:08,333 --> 00:26:12,037 Like Popocateptl, it too has a large population 432 00:26:12,037 --> 00:26:15,374 around its base. 433 00:26:15,374 --> 00:26:20,279 Nearly a half million people live within its danger zone. 434 00:26:20,279 --> 00:26:23,081 Given its eruptive history, there is some belief 435 00:26:23,081 --> 00:26:25,417 that the volcano is on an 100-year cycle 436 00:26:25,417 --> 00:26:30,622 that will culminate in a colossal eruption. 437 00:26:33,058 --> 00:26:36,428 NARRATOR: The last colossal eruption was 1913. 438 00:26:36,428 --> 00:26:38,797 It destroyed most of the volcano, 439 00:26:38,797 --> 00:26:42,034 and caused widespread damage in the city of Colima, 440 00:26:42,034 --> 00:26:44,069 killing eight people. 441 00:26:44,069 --> 00:26:46,805 Today the area is vastly more populated, 442 00:26:46,805 --> 00:26:50,008 making the threat greater. 443 00:26:54,680 --> 00:27:00,018 TOM: [Speaking Spanish] 444 00:27:00,018 --> 00:27:02,287 NARRATOR: Two people that live with that danger 445 00:27:02,287 --> 00:27:05,591 are photographer Hernando Rivera and Ulises Chavez, 446 00:27:05,591 --> 00:27:07,626 the owner of the cabin. 447 00:27:07,626 --> 00:27:12,598 TOM: [Speaking Spanish] 448 00:27:12,598 --> 00:27:17,002 [Speaking Spanish] 449 00:27:17,002 --> 00:27:19,238 TOM: How's the volcano been in the past days? 450 00:27:19,238 --> 00:27:21,707 NARRATOR: Active is good for Tom. 451 00:27:21,707 --> 00:27:24,142 He's here to photograph Colima for a book 452 00:27:24,142 --> 00:27:27,479 he is putting together on active volcanoes. 453 00:27:27,479 --> 00:27:30,349 TOM: We are maybe-- I looked on the map-- 454 00:27:30,349 --> 00:27:33,151 It should be six, seven kilometers from the distance 455 00:27:33,151 --> 00:27:36,255 in a straight line, to the summit. 456 00:27:36,255 --> 00:27:38,123 So in case of a major explosion, 457 00:27:38,123 --> 00:27:41,760 like last time in 1913, 458 00:27:41,760 --> 00:27:43,362 we would not be safe here. 459 00:27:43,362 --> 00:27:46,131 This area was hit by pyroclastic flows. 460 00:27:46,131 --> 00:27:50,802 NARRATOR: A large eruption in the next five days is unlikely. 461 00:27:50,802 --> 00:27:53,205 Although the volcano is going through a phase 462 00:27:53,205 --> 00:27:55,641 of high activity, the frequent eruptions 463 00:27:55,641 --> 00:27:59,111 indicate to Tom that pressure is not able to build up 464 00:27:59,111 --> 00:28:02,714 inside the volcano. 465 00:28:02,714 --> 00:28:05,384 And he is well outside the exclusion zone 466 00:28:05,384 --> 00:28:08,353 imposed by Civil Protection. 467 00:28:08,353 --> 00:28:11,623 If the intensity increases, or if abnormal activity 468 00:28:11,623 --> 00:28:14,293 is detected, Colima's Civil Protection 469 00:28:14,293 --> 00:28:18,297 will increase that zone for everyone's safety. 470 00:28:18,297 --> 00:28:21,233 TOM: Have you been here before to see the eruptions? 471 00:28:21,233 --> 00:28:25,237 HERNANDO: Yes, mostly on weekends... 472 00:28:25,237 --> 00:28:30,542 I came here and just.. enjoy the show. 473 00:28:30,542 --> 00:28:32,711 TOM: This doesn't get more comfortable. 474 00:28:34,046 --> 00:28:39,151 [Distant explosion] 475 00:28:42,321 --> 00:28:44,423 NARRATOR: Tom spends a lot of time visiting 476 00:28:44,423 --> 00:28:47,025 and photographing active volcanoes. 477 00:28:47,025 --> 00:28:50,095 He finds Colima irresistible. 478 00:28:50,095 --> 00:28:54,232 The volcano undergoes frequent moderate eruptions. 479 00:29:00,138 --> 00:29:04,142 [Rumbling] 480 00:29:04,142 --> 00:29:09,114 [Rumbling] 481 00:29:09,114 --> 00:29:14,119 [Rumbling] 482 00:29:14,119 --> 00:29:18,423 [Rumbling] 483 00:29:18,423 --> 00:29:22,094 NARRATOR: Colima is stratovolcano, a type of volcano 484 00:29:22,094 --> 00:29:25,631 that is made up from layers of ejected material. 485 00:29:25,631 --> 00:29:28,567 With each lava flow and ash eruption 486 00:29:28,567 --> 00:29:32,137 the cone gets bigger. 487 00:29:34,172 --> 00:29:36,642 NARRATOR: This type of volcano is prone to collapse 488 00:29:36,642 --> 00:29:40,379 either during an eruption or from erosion. 489 00:29:40,379 --> 00:29:43,115 To make matters worse, Colima produces 490 00:29:43,115 --> 00:29:46,151 a sticky type of lava that collects at the summit 491 00:29:46,151 --> 00:29:49,554 growing the volcano faster. 492 00:29:49,554 --> 00:29:52,424 The result is a much steeper volcano 493 00:29:52,424 --> 00:29:56,294 that adds to the likelihood of collapse. 494 00:29:56,294 --> 00:29:59,698 Very active volcanoes like Colima often go through periods 495 00:29:59,698 --> 00:30:03,168 of destruction followed by rebuilding. 496 00:30:09,374 --> 00:30:12,577 TOM: In the past, tens of thousands of years ago 497 00:30:12,577 --> 00:30:16,148 a much bigger volcano was in its place. 498 00:30:16,148 --> 00:30:21,453 That volcano collapsed and generated a giant avalanche 499 00:30:21,453 --> 00:30:25,724 that travelled that way, leaving a depression. 500 00:30:25,724 --> 00:30:29,361 This one is in the stage of rebuilding its cone. 501 00:30:29,361 --> 00:30:31,496 That's why it's so beautiful. 502 00:30:43,275 --> 00:30:45,444 TOM: It's the last light of the day. 503 00:30:45,444 --> 00:30:48,380 Only the upper part of the mountain has still sunlight 504 00:30:48,380 --> 00:30:50,148 and it's glowing red, 505 00:30:50,148 --> 00:30:54,286 and we had just a beautiful ash eruption. 506 00:30:54,286 --> 00:30:57,556 It looked incredibly nice with the blue background 507 00:30:57,556 --> 00:31:02,527 of the clear sky and the red ash. 508 00:31:02,527 --> 00:31:06,064 A perfect evening. 509 00:31:09,101 --> 00:31:11,670 NARRATOR: The explosions are impressive by day, 510 00:31:11,670 --> 00:31:15,440 but they are spectacular by night. 511 00:31:18,810 --> 00:31:22,814 [Rumbling] 512 00:31:22,814 --> 00:31:27,819 [Explosion] 513 00:31:27,819 --> 00:31:29,821 [Explosion] 514 00:31:29,821 --> 00:31:34,826 [Rumbling] 515 00:31:34,826 --> 00:31:39,831 [Rumbling] 516 00:31:39,831 --> 00:31:44,836 [Rumbling] 517 00:31:44,836 --> 00:31:49,841 [Rumbling] 518 00:31:49,841 --> 00:31:54,746 [Rumbling] 519 00:31:54,746 --> 00:32:02,087 [Rumbling] 520 00:32:02,087 --> 00:32:06,525 TOM: Wow, this was by far the most spectacular eruption so far. 521 00:32:10,028 --> 00:32:13,064 TOM: After a relatively small one that followed six hours 522 00:32:13,064 --> 00:32:18,203 of nothing, a big one started that lasted several minutes 523 00:32:18,203 --> 00:32:21,807 with a continuous jet of incandescent ash. 524 00:32:21,807 --> 00:32:23,608 Lots of bombs. 525 00:32:23,608 --> 00:32:28,547 The whole upper half of the cone was bombarded. 526 00:32:28,547 --> 00:32:30,315 And it was fantastic to see. 527 00:32:30,315 --> 00:32:33,051 It was constantly pumping up. 528 00:32:33,051 --> 00:32:36,087 You could hear the roaring of the explosion 529 00:32:36,087 --> 00:32:41,426 and the tumbling sound of rocks falling down. 530 00:32:41,426 --> 00:32:43,428 I'm happy to have it on picture. 531 00:32:45,664 --> 00:32:47,666 NARRATOR: The upper part of the volcano 532 00:32:47,666 --> 00:32:50,602 is covered with incandescent material. 533 00:32:50,602 --> 00:32:53,605 What looks like small exhalations by day 534 00:32:53,605 --> 00:32:56,274 take on a different look entirely at night, 535 00:32:56,274 --> 00:32:58,743 where you can see the glow of molten lava. 536 00:33:04,683 --> 00:33:07,152 NARRATOR: Each day at a volcano is different, 537 00:33:07,152 --> 00:33:10,021 as it runs through short-term cycles. 538 00:33:10,021 --> 00:33:12,290 It all depends on the rate that magma is flowing 539 00:33:12,290 --> 00:33:15,560 into the chamber below the crater. 540 00:33:21,299 --> 00:33:24,469 NARRATOR: Those volcanic bombs or giant rocks 541 00:33:24,469 --> 00:33:27,706 are thrown out of the volcano and roll downhill. 542 00:33:27,706 --> 00:33:31,409 The activity is building the volcano. 543 00:33:31,409 --> 00:33:34,279 Over the period of a century, a volcano like Colima 544 00:33:34,279 --> 00:33:37,449 can add a third or more to its size. 545 00:33:37,449 --> 00:33:41,052 TOM: It seems the volcano has picked up since last night. 546 00:33:41,052 --> 00:33:44,389 This morning we already had two quite sizable eruptions. 547 00:33:44,389 --> 00:33:46,591 The upper flanks are full of dust 548 00:33:46,591 --> 00:33:48,226 which comes from rock falls, 549 00:33:48,226 --> 00:33:50,295 and actually now there is a rock fall going on. 550 00:33:52,230 --> 00:33:54,399 TOM: To me, it seems it's picking up. 551 00:33:54,399 --> 00:33:58,770 Both, especially the size of the average explosion. 552 00:33:58,770 --> 00:34:02,274 It might be that the eruptions are less frequent 553 00:34:02,274 --> 00:34:04,442 so the intervals are longer, 554 00:34:04,442 --> 00:34:07,646 but that seems also to result in bigger explosions. 555 00:34:07,646 --> 00:34:10,482 As more magma accumulates, 556 00:34:10,482 --> 00:34:14,619 it is ejected during the subsequent explosion. 557 00:34:14,619 --> 00:34:18,189 NARRATOR: What's occurring inside the crater is not visible. 558 00:34:18,189 --> 00:34:20,325 From the ground, it's impossible to see 559 00:34:20,325 --> 00:34:23,395 how many vents are causing the eruptions. 560 00:34:23,395 --> 00:34:27,032 Often a volcano will have more than one eruptive vent, 561 00:34:27,032 --> 00:34:30,235 and each will have a different characteristic. 562 00:34:30,235 --> 00:34:34,372 Some vents produce smaller, less explosive eruptions. 563 00:34:34,372 --> 00:34:38,043 At times all the vents within the crater erupt together 564 00:34:38,043 --> 00:34:41,413 producing a larger than average eruption. 565 00:34:41,413 --> 00:34:45,350 The best way to see what's happening is from above. 566 00:34:51,456 --> 00:34:55,827 TOM: We have been so lucky that the volcano has started to erupt 567 00:34:55,827 --> 00:34:59,531 while we were approaching it. 568 00:34:59,531 --> 00:35:04,269 A scent of ash is rising from the central crater 569 00:35:04,269 --> 00:35:08,206 and it's still going on after three, four minutes I think. 570 00:35:08,206 --> 00:35:10,742 NARRATOR: Pilots play an important role in the global reporting 571 00:35:10,742 --> 00:35:13,144 of volcanic eruptions. 572 00:35:13,144 --> 00:35:16,181 Here the pilot is requested by the control tower 573 00:35:16,181 --> 00:35:18,650 to relay information on the eruption column's height 574 00:35:18,650 --> 00:35:20,618 and drift. 575 00:35:20,618 --> 00:35:24,022 TOM: The pilot, with his experience, 576 00:35:24,022 --> 00:35:26,524 told them it's about two kilometers tall. 577 00:35:26,524 --> 00:35:28,360 Two kilometers above the summit, 578 00:35:28,360 --> 00:35:33,031 which is a moderately large eruption, actually. 579 00:35:33,031 --> 00:35:36,267 NARRATOR: This information will be relayed by local air traffic controllers 580 00:35:36,267 --> 00:35:40,338 to any passenger planes using this busy corridor. 581 00:35:40,338 --> 00:35:43,308 Volcanic ash is incredibly abrasive. 582 00:35:43,308 --> 00:35:45,543 If it were to be sucked in by the plane, 583 00:35:45,543 --> 00:35:49,047 it can cause the engines to stall. 584 00:35:49,047 --> 00:35:51,783 A small turbo plane like the one that Tom is in 585 00:35:51,783 --> 00:35:54,352 is not in danger. 586 00:35:54,352 --> 00:35:56,621 The pilot's observation of the summit crater 587 00:35:56,621 --> 00:36:00,558 will also get relayed on to the civil protection agency. 588 00:36:00,558 --> 00:36:02,427 Tom will post his observations 589 00:36:02,427 --> 00:36:05,230 to his volcano discovery website. 590 00:36:05,230 --> 00:36:08,333 Those are widely used by the Smithsonian Institution's 591 00:36:08,333 --> 00:36:13,438 global volcano activity report that is sent out weekly. 592 00:36:17,075 --> 00:36:20,211 NARRATOR: From this vantage point, Tom can see just how steep 593 00:36:20,211 --> 00:36:23,014 the volcano is. 594 00:36:23,014 --> 00:36:24,682 As they draw level with the crater, 595 00:36:24,682 --> 00:36:27,252 they can look right inside. 596 00:36:27,252 --> 00:36:29,187 It looks like a large ash pit 597 00:36:29,187 --> 00:36:33,458 where material has fallen back in from previous eruptions. 598 00:36:35,126 --> 00:36:37,629 TOM: I am not sure I would like to have an explosion right now. 599 00:36:37,629 --> 00:36:40,565 We are so close. 600 00:36:47,238 --> 00:36:51,643 NARRATOR: In spite of Tom's wishes, the volcano erupts. 601 00:36:51,643 --> 00:36:55,146 Fortunately it's not a sudden, big explosion 602 00:36:55,146 --> 00:36:59,317 but something much smaller. 603 00:37:02,053 --> 00:37:05,490 NARRATOR: A number of ash jets shoot up from multiple vents. 604 00:37:05,490 --> 00:37:08,026 The initial burst clears the conduit, 605 00:37:08,026 --> 00:37:12,697 so the eruption is sustained for a few minutes. 606 00:37:12,697 --> 00:37:16,000 The eruption releases pressure inside the volcano. 607 00:37:16,000 --> 00:37:19,204 As ash falls back down, it blocks the conduit 608 00:37:19,204 --> 00:37:22,707 and the process of re-pressurization begins again. 609 00:37:28,012 --> 00:37:31,182 NARRATOR: The flight gave Tom a great view of the crater. 610 00:37:31,182 --> 00:37:34,152 Now he and Hernando Rivera are going to see Colima 611 00:37:34,152 --> 00:37:36,621 from another angle. 612 00:37:36,621 --> 00:37:39,424 They're heading to the volcano observation post 613 00:37:39,424 --> 00:37:41,559 on top of Nevado de Colima, 614 00:37:41,559 --> 00:37:43,628 an old, extinct part of the complex 615 00:37:43,628 --> 00:37:45,463 next to the active cone, 616 00:37:45,463 --> 00:37:47,232 which is known by its full name 617 00:37:47,232 --> 00:37:49,767 Fuego de Colima. 618 00:37:49,767 --> 00:37:52,637 The area is off limits to the general public 619 00:37:52,637 --> 00:37:56,441 but Tom and Hernando get special permission. 620 00:37:56,441 --> 00:37:59,310 Security is tight and the area is patrolled 621 00:37:59,310 --> 00:38:02,347 to keep unauthorized thrill-seekers away. 622 00:38:02,347 --> 00:38:05,984 They are greeted by members of the Jalisco Civil Protection, 623 00:38:05,984 --> 00:38:09,254 who will guide them the rest of the way up the steep roads. 624 00:38:11,189 --> 00:38:16,094 TOM: The guy is worried that the van will make it. 625 00:38:16,094 --> 00:38:18,062 We convinced him to at least try it. 626 00:38:18,062 --> 00:38:18,997 We'll see. 627 00:38:18,997 --> 00:38:24,169 Well, it's typical for if you try to access 628 00:38:24,169 --> 00:38:27,772 an active volcano that you have obstacles 629 00:38:27,772 --> 00:38:31,109 that are not necessarily the nature of the volcano 630 00:38:31,109 --> 00:38:34,179 but sometimes, or very often actually, 631 00:38:34,179 --> 00:38:35,647 it's the authorities. 632 00:38:35,647 --> 00:38:40,185 So apparently the way is very bad and dangerous. 633 00:38:40,185 --> 00:38:41,152 DRIVER: Yes. 634 00:38:41,152 --> 00:38:43,755 TOM: I'm not very afraid of the volcano 635 00:38:43,755 --> 00:38:47,392 having an exceptional explosion and affecting us 636 00:38:47,392 --> 00:38:49,093 at five kilometers' distance. 637 00:38:49,093 --> 00:38:53,531 I'm actually more worried of the narrow road 638 00:38:53,531 --> 00:38:55,133 and this car flipping over 639 00:38:55,133 --> 00:38:57,669 and landing down there in some gully. 640 00:38:57,669 --> 00:39:01,472 NARRATOR: Access to active volcanoes varies throughout the world. 641 00:39:01,472 --> 00:39:05,310 In Hawaii, you can drive up to Kilauea's active crater, 642 00:39:05,310 --> 00:39:09,647 and at Italy's Mount Etna, you can ski the active area. 643 00:39:09,647 --> 00:39:12,183 However, once an eruption starts 644 00:39:12,183 --> 00:39:16,521 the skiing is shut down until the eruption stops. 645 00:39:16,521 --> 00:39:20,658 TOM: I think we're just a little bit higher than the summit of Fuego. 646 00:39:20,658 --> 00:39:23,595 NARRATOR: Tom is heading into the Jalisco Civil Protection Agency's 647 00:39:23,595 --> 00:39:27,632 volcanic observation post on Colima's neighbor. 648 00:39:27,632 --> 00:39:30,034 It's an older, extinct volcano 649 00:39:30,034 --> 00:39:33,204 that is part of the same complex as Colima. 650 00:39:33,204 --> 00:39:36,474 It's an excellent and safe vantage point to monitor 651 00:39:36,474 --> 00:39:41,312 the changes at the summit of the active volcano. 652 00:39:44,649 --> 00:39:47,418 NARRATOR: The structure is built with reinforced concrete 653 00:39:47,418 --> 00:39:50,388 that can withstand a large eruption. 654 00:39:50,388 --> 00:39:53,758 [Distant explosion] 655 00:39:57,695 --> 00:40:01,466 NARRATOR: The volcano is still very active. 656 00:40:03,234 --> 00:40:06,137 TOM: We're just having an eruption. 657 00:40:06,137 --> 00:40:08,573 It's a small one, but it's so beautiful 658 00:40:08,573 --> 00:40:12,377 because we're so much closer than from our cabin down there, 659 00:40:12,377 --> 00:40:14,479 which is also a great view from the west. 660 00:40:14,479 --> 00:40:16,781 And it's incredible. 661 00:40:16,781 --> 00:40:18,783 You have the feeling you can see each detail 662 00:40:18,783 --> 00:40:21,653 of the crater rim. 663 00:40:23,788 --> 00:40:25,323 TOM: Probably going to have a bigger ones. 664 00:40:25,323 --> 00:40:27,492 And already it's very beautiful. 665 00:40:27,492 --> 00:40:29,327 We're just a little bit higher I would say 666 00:40:29,327 --> 00:40:31,763 than the top of the crater of Colima, 667 00:40:31,763 --> 00:40:34,799 Fuego de Colima. 668 00:40:34,799 --> 00:40:37,168 The view is just amazing. 669 00:40:37,168 --> 00:40:39,370 To the west, see the chain of mountains all the way 670 00:40:39,370 --> 00:40:44,175 to the Pacific coast in the far distance there. 671 00:40:44,175 --> 00:40:48,680 We are almost 4,000 meters above sea level here. 672 00:40:48,680 --> 00:40:51,249 NARRATOR: As the sun goes down, Tom gets ready 673 00:40:51,249 --> 00:40:55,053 for Mother Nature's greatest show. 674 00:41:02,427 --> 00:41:04,329 NARRATOR: Today the eruptions have been between 675 00:41:04,329 --> 00:41:06,464 two and six hours apart, 676 00:41:06,464 --> 00:41:10,234 so there's nothing to do but be patient and wait. 677 00:41:10,234 --> 00:41:16,441 TOM: We are here and just facing Fuego volcano, 678 00:41:16,441 --> 00:41:18,476 maybe four kilometers away. 679 00:41:18,476 --> 00:41:21,813 It's 20 minutes past 11 or something. 680 00:41:21,813 --> 00:41:25,283 Beautiful moonlight, almost no wind. 681 00:41:25,283 --> 00:41:27,819 We're at 4,000 meters altitude. 682 00:41:27,819 --> 00:41:30,088 Although it's freezing it's quite bearable because 683 00:41:30,088 --> 00:41:32,490 there's no wind. 684 00:41:32,490 --> 00:41:36,160 We have the feeling it might erupt soon again. 685 00:41:36,160 --> 00:41:38,296 There is a little incandescent spot, 686 00:41:38,296 --> 00:41:41,366 I guess it's what's left of the most recent lava dome. 687 00:41:41,366 --> 00:41:45,269 This glow sometimes increases, 688 00:41:45,269 --> 00:41:48,573 but it looks as if it has been quiet for awhile 689 00:41:48,573 --> 00:41:53,711 so I have this feeling it might erupt very soon again. 690 00:41:53,711 --> 00:41:56,180 Anyway, we're ready here. 691 00:41:57,081 --> 00:41:59,617 NARRATOR: As the pressure increases, small vents open up, 692 00:41:59,617 --> 00:42:02,720 shooting out burning gas. 693 00:42:02,720 --> 00:42:06,090 Inside the crater, the conduit is plugged. 694 00:42:06,090 --> 00:42:07,692 It will need to build up enough pressure 695 00:42:07,692 --> 00:42:10,161 before it can blow the plug. 696 00:42:14,399 --> 00:42:18,302 [Distant explosion] 697 00:42:18,302 --> 00:42:21,272 NARRATOR: This builds to the point it can sustain itself, 698 00:42:21,272 --> 00:42:24,409 and an eruption happens. 699 00:42:24,409 --> 00:42:28,413 [Explosion] 700 00:42:28,413 --> 00:42:31,816 [Rumbling] 701 00:42:31,816 --> 00:42:34,552 [Rumbling] 702 00:42:34,552 --> 00:42:39,390 NARRATOR: This is a full eruption, and it's a good one. 703 00:42:39,390 --> 00:42:44,395 [Rumbling] 704 00:42:44,395 --> 00:42:49,400 [Rumbling] 705 00:42:49,400 --> 00:42:52,437 [Rumbling] 706 00:42:52,437 --> 00:42:54,405 NARRATOR: These eruptions can continue for as long 707 00:42:54,405 --> 00:42:58,810 as there's pressure in the conduit. 708 00:42:58,810 --> 00:43:03,714 [Rumbling] 709 00:43:03,714 --> 00:43:08,719 [Rumbling] 710 00:43:08,719 --> 00:43:13,724 [Rumbling] 711 00:43:13,724 --> 00:43:18,729 [Crackling] 712 00:43:18,729 --> 00:43:23,734 [Crackling] 713 00:43:23,734 --> 00:43:30,475 [Crackling] 714 00:43:30,475 --> 00:43:33,744 TOM: I think this was probably the biggest one 715 00:43:33,744 --> 00:43:39,750 we've had in the five days we've been observing Colima. 716 00:43:39,750 --> 00:43:44,355 It looked like a fire fountain probably 500 meters high. 717 00:43:44,355 --> 00:43:47,425 It's not a lava fountain but it looked as if one. 718 00:43:47,425 --> 00:43:49,760 All this incandescent ash, blocks being ejected, 719 00:43:49,760 --> 00:43:52,530 and then falling back onto the flank 720 00:43:52,530 --> 00:43:55,366 and tumbling down until the whole flank here 721 00:43:55,366 --> 00:43:57,435 was glowing red. 722 00:43:57,435 --> 00:43:59,470 It was an amazing show. 723 00:43:59,470 --> 00:44:02,573 I'm glad we insisted coming here 724 00:44:02,573 --> 00:44:04,742 and waiting out in the cold at night. 725 00:44:04,742 --> 00:44:07,178 It was really worth it. 726 00:44:07,178 --> 00:44:12,183 ♪♪♪ 727 00:44:12,183 --> 00:44:17,188 ♪♪♪ 728 00:44:17,188 --> 00:44:22,193 ♪♪♪ 729 00:44:22,193 --> 00:44:24,795 ♪♪♪ 730 00:44:24,795 --> 00:44:27,131 NARRATOR: The following morning, the volcano 731 00:44:27,131 --> 00:44:31,402 is once again very active. 732 00:44:31,402 --> 00:44:36,407 [Rumbling] 733 00:44:36,407 --> 00:44:41,412 [Rumbling] 734 00:44:41,412 --> 00:44:46,417 [Rumbling] 735 00:44:46,417 --> 00:44:51,822 [Rumbling] 736 00:44:51,822 --> 00:44:55,660 NARRATOR: If the idea of getting this close to an active volcano 737 00:44:55,660 --> 00:45:00,031 seems reckless or foolhardy, then consider Tom's view. 738 00:45:00,031 --> 00:45:03,534 Experienced volcanologists don't take risks. 739 00:45:03,534 --> 00:45:06,337 They carefully watch the cycles and know when the climb 740 00:45:06,337 --> 00:45:08,372 would be too dangerous. 741 00:45:08,372 --> 00:45:10,107 They adhere to the rules put in place 742 00:45:10,107 --> 00:45:12,376 by the local authorities. 743 00:45:12,376 --> 00:45:16,280 Tom believes it's safer than driving on motorways. 744 00:45:16,280 --> 00:45:19,083 But what makes it most worthwhile for Tom 745 00:45:19,083 --> 00:45:22,186 is that he gets a front row seat to see the elemental forces 746 00:45:22,186 --> 00:45:24,722 that shape our earth. 747 00:45:24,722 --> 00:45:29,594 TOM: There's this incredible beauty of this mountain, 748 00:45:29,594 --> 00:45:32,396 which every now and then spits out fire. 749 00:45:32,396 --> 00:45:39,604 It's a sense of something much bigger than humans. 750 00:45:39,604 --> 00:45:43,474 There is this aspect of mystery of nature, 751 00:45:43,474 --> 00:45:45,443 something much bigger than us. 752 00:45:45,443 --> 00:45:48,746 We're very prone to give us this sensation 753 00:45:48,746 --> 00:45:52,416 of being close to the elements. 754 00:45:52,416 --> 00:45:55,052 Something that reminds you of the creation of the Earth, 755 00:45:55,052 --> 00:45:59,256 and that's what's most fascinating to me. 756 00:45:59,256 --> 00:46:02,994 Combined with the sheer beauty of something symmetric 757 00:46:02,994 --> 00:46:05,529 where there is a crater, and all of a sudden 758 00:46:05,529 --> 00:46:08,399 you see fire coming out from there. 759 00:46:11,135 --> 00:46:13,170 NARRATOR: For now, Colima continues to erupt 760 00:46:13,170 --> 00:46:15,673 moderately and safely. 761 00:46:15,673 --> 00:46:18,376 It is likely that before any major eruption 762 00:46:18,376 --> 00:46:20,711 the volcano's activity will pick up 763 00:46:20,711 --> 00:46:23,180 and will demonstrate signs that will give scientists 764 00:46:23,180 --> 00:46:25,616 enough warning to safely evacuate the people 765 00:46:25,616 --> 00:46:28,219 surrounding the volcano. 766 00:46:28,219 --> 00:46:29,754 Time will tell. 767 00:46:29,754 --> 00:46:34,759 ♪♪♪ 768 00:46:34,759 --> 00:46:38,529 ♪♪♪ 769 00:46:38,529 --> 00:46:41,599 NARRATOR: The history of humanity has always been affected 770 00:46:41,599 --> 00:46:44,769 and rerouted by natural disasters. 771 00:46:44,769 --> 00:46:47,672 We know that certain kinds of volcanic eruptions 772 00:46:47,672 --> 00:46:50,341 have the power to bring incredible destruction 773 00:46:50,341 --> 00:46:52,276 in moments. 774 00:46:52,276 --> 00:46:55,246 But now we have sophisticated technology 775 00:46:55,246 --> 00:46:57,715 and a better understanding of the mechanisms at work 776 00:46:57,715 --> 00:47:01,485 inside a volcano to monitor them. 777 00:47:01,485 --> 00:47:04,422 In Mexico, millions of people live in the shadows 778 00:47:04,422 --> 00:47:06,691 of active volcanoes. 779 00:47:06,691 --> 00:47:09,093 They will erupt again. 780 00:47:09,093 --> 00:47:12,229 The unanswered question is when. 781 00:47:12,229 --> 00:47:15,166 But for now we observe and wait, 782 00:47:15,166 --> 00:47:18,436 and marvel at their power and beauty. 783 00:47:18,436 --> 00:47:23,441 ♪♪♪ 784 00:47:23,441 --> 00:47:28,446 ♪♪♪ 785 00:47:28,446 --> 00:47:33,451 ♪♪♪ 786 00:47:33,451 --> 00:47:38,456 ♪♪♪ 787 00:47:38,456 --> 00:47:44,762 ♪♪♪ 788 00:47:44,762 --> 00:47:51,469 ♪♪♪ 789 00:47:51,469 --> 00:47:55,005 ♪♪♪ 62203

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