We detail the series of pyroclastic surges and ash clouds unleashed during the eruption, which launched a colossal column of volcanic ash and gases into the sky.

We also discuss the ferocious pyroclastic flows, swift currents of hot gas and volcanic debris which reached temperatures exceeding several hundred degrees Celsius, hauntingly preserving the towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum for future discovery.

This event had a major impact on the region and is remembered as one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.