[Myrddin]

After the Toba explosion, the genetic diversity in human mitochondrial DNA has nearly disappeared. Mitochondial DNA is passed down the matriarchal line via the egg protoplasm. Comparing the diversity in mitochondial DNA over populations worldwide AND computing the expected rate of mutation, the mitochondial DNA dates to a common set of ancestors at 70,000 to 80,000 years ago. Toba was 75,000 years ago.

Popping the cork off Yellowstone will eliminate the population carrying capacity of the American farmer. I'm only 200 miles from Yellowstone in Pocatello. The local area is built on top of an old lava flow from the last time Yellowstone popped. We'll get about a 20 minute warning before the pyroclastic flow rolls though here.

[blam]

"Popping the cork off Yellowstone will eliminate the population carrying capacity of the American farmer."

Food will be the problem worldwide.

[capitan_refugio]

The distribution of volcanic ash from a major eruption depends primarilly on the prevailing winds during the duration of the eruption(s). If the ash is blown high enough into the atmosphere, it may additionally be caught up in the jet stream. One might recall the colorful sunsets for a couple of years after the Mt. Pinatubo eruption in the Philippines.

[Jimmy Valentine]

"We'll get about a 20 minute warning before the pyroclastic flow rolls though here."

That's not much time. I guess you can forget about doing a load of laundry before you skedaddle.

Regards,