Last century's volcano in the Caribbean killed 30,000 inhabitants in one minute

At the time of the explosion at this popular tourist destination, there were about 50 people in the crater, and so far the death of eight people has been confirmed, while at least 20 have been seriously injured and dozens more reported missing.

As a reminder, the worst volcanic disaster occurred in 1902 in Martinique, an island on Antile in the Caribbean Sea.

For less than 60 seconds, the largest city on this island, St. Pierre was destroyed, and only three people survived the eruption of Mont Pelée volcano.

In the days leading up to the disaster, the volcano released smoke and toxic gases, but it was a relatively common phenomenon for natives.

No one left until a layer of ash covered the entire city. It became quite clear that Mont Pelée was ready to drop “ ”.

Panic started in town. Some were running and the others with donkeys were leaving town.

Local media, city officials, continued to assure residents that it was safe to stay in the city. On May 8th, citizens even celebrated a religious festival when a mushroom - shaped cloud was created, swallowing the entire city to 1093 degrees Fahrenheit [1093 ° C]. People burned in the country so they don't feel a second of pain. The entire island was covered with white ash that seems to fall from heaven.

A 10-year-old girl named Havivra da Ifrile was able to get into a boat and take refuge in a rock. Léon Compère-Léander threw himself into the boiling ocean. He had burns all over his body, but survived.

The third person who survived was the criminal Louis-Augate Cypares. He spent four days in solitary prison in a burnt city until the environment had cooled enough for rescuers to enter and get him out. Nobody else was so lucky.

All residents of St. Pierre disappeared within seconds in the worst catastrophe of the 20th century.