The Eruption of Mount Tambora

Geological / environmental event

April 10 - 15, 1815

From April 10 to 15, 1815, Mount Tambora in Indonesia experienced one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history. The eruption killed tens of thousands of people on Sumbawa and neighboring islands, both directly through lava and tsunamis, and indirectly due to starvation. It released massive amounts of volcanic ash into the stratosphere, reflecting sunlight away from Earth. This caused a global temperature drop of 0.4 - 0.7 degrees and disrupted weather patterns. Cooler temperatures led to crop failures and food shortages. In June, July, and August, frosts and snowfall were reported in many regions, including North America and Europe, leading to what became known as "The Year Without a Summer." These events, combined with the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars, created significant challenges in Europe.