Central Java’s Mount Merapi continues to erupt, and to the casual observer, it may seem to be in a remote part of the world. But Merapi has been identified by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth’s Interior (IAVCEI) as one of the few volcanoes around the world that poses a serious risk to human populations.  The IAVEI also has named 15 other volcanoes as part of the group of known as the Decade Volcanoes.  These volcanoes, recognized for in-depth study because of their history of destructive eruptions and proximity to populated areas, are part of a project called the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction 1990-2000. The purpose of the project is to increase awareness of the dangers these volcanoes present.

Some of the names are familiar, but all of the lava and ash producers below are active and dangerous.

 
Findings from the Decade Volcano project have helped predict volcanic events and lessen the impact of disasters. Keep this list handy if want to avoid — or witness from a safe distance — a live volcano.