Differential Geometry of Curves

Abstract

Galeras, a volcano in the south of Colombia, has historically been very active. Nevertheless, the memory of the tragic eruption of Nevado del Ruiz in 1985 caused great anxiety in the surrounding region as the first signs of reawakening were perceived in early 1989. Decision makers were unprepared as they tried to organize their communities. The media were obsessed with another potential tragedy, the community scared and disorientated. Banks, businesses and traders - seriously affected by the uncertainties of the situation - forced the regional and local authorities to ignore the volcano activity. The relationship between scientists, the authorities and the community suffered from inappropriate management of the situation. Seismic swarms that could be felt and eruptions that were observed in 1993 helped to focus the minds of all involved. Recently, the relative quietness of the volcano has allowed scientists, the authorities and the community to achieve remarkable results. Awareness of the hazards is now growing among the community. Policies need to be implemented while the volcano is dormant