- The probabily that volcanic phenomena can occur with such a severity that they produce damages (the hazards)

- The presence of valued elements in areas affected by volcanic hazards (the elements at risk)

To make it simple, the volcanic risk would be nil, if Martinique was uninhabited. The consequences of mount Pelée eruptions would be limited to the destruction of the natural environment.

Nevertheless, Martique is far to be unoccupied. The island is densily populated, and the volcano is the support of numerous resources and activities : housing, agriculture, transports, industries, services, tourism, etc...

A volcanic eruption could have major consequences for the island.

It is necessary to survey the elements at risk, in order to assess the potential effects of future eruptions. This type of analysis allows the society to be better prepared in case of a volcanic unrest. We present here some of the most significant elements at risk around Mt. Pelee volcano.