Development of an Interagency Response Plan for Volcanic Ash Episodes Impacting California

Volcanic eruption plumes and drifting ash clouds from California volcanoes pose a risk to flight operations nationwide and to public health and infrastructure. Volcanic ash from a Pacific Northwest or Alaska volcano may also have an impact on flight operations in California airspace. The California Interagency Operating Plan for Volcanic Ash Events in Support of Aviation provides an overview of integrated, multi-agency efforts to share information and take coordinated action to mitigate the threat of volcanic ash in California.

The plan is a reflection of the strong working relationship that exists between California Emergency Management (CALEMA), NOAA, USGS, and FAA to define the hazard and spell out the roles and responsibilities of the various partner agencies. In addition to assisting operational decision making during a “real” volcanic ash event, the plan may also be used as a basis for conducting interagency exercises to test the effectiveness of the agencies in providing timely and accurate products and services. This plan serves as a foundational piece when dealing with a high impact, low frequency volcanic ash event in California.