Laki (Laki eruption)

The Laki eruption, which occurred in Iceland between June 1783 and February 1784, was one of the most significant volcanic events in history. It released an enormous amount of lava and toxic gases, particularly sulfur dioxide, into the atmosphere. This led to severe air pollution and a phenomenon known as "volcanic winter," causing dramatic climate changes in Europe and North America. The eruption resulted in widespread crop failures and famine, which is estimated to have contributed to the death of around 6,000 people in Iceland and significant health issues across the continent due to the resultant fog and acid rain.