The Nevado del Ruiz, a stratovolcano located in Colombia, experienced a significant eruption that triggered a massive lahar, a volcanic mudslide, on November 13, 1985. This disaster was primarily due to the rapid melting of the glaciers covering the volcano's summit during the eruption. As hot volcanic material interacted with the glacier ice, it created a flow of mud and volcanic ash that cascaded down the mountainside at great speed. The lahar descended into the valley where the town of Armero was situated, leading to one of the most catastrophic volcanic disasters in Latin American history. Unsuspecting residents of Armero, a town with a population of approximately 28,700, had little to no warning as the lahar engulfed the area, burying homes, and trapping thousands. The event was notable not only for its scale but also for the sheer speed with which it occurred. The mudslide struck in the early hours of the morning, and within minutes, parts of Armero were inundated with 20 feet of mud and debris. Rescue efforts were hampered by the chaos and destruction, and the lack of an effective disaster response plan meant that many victims were never recovered. The tragedy of Armero led to increased awareness of volcanic threats and the importance of geological monitoring, prompting Colombia and other nations to enhance their disaster response capabilities. A significant aspect of the eruption was its connection to the broader geological features of the Andes Mountains, which are characterized by volcanic activity due to tectonic movements. Scientists noted that this event was a warning sign of how local populations living near active volcanoes should prioritize preparedness and risk management. The lahar's path could have been predicted, emphasizing the need for effective communication of geological hazards.