Story perspectives

Volcanic Eruption Linked to Black Death's Climate Crisis

12/4/2025

Summary

Story summary

A study by the University of Cambridge and the Leibniz Institute finds that a volcanic eruption around 1345 triggered climate disruptions linked to the Black Death in Europe.
The eruption caused crop failures, prompting grain imports from the Black Sea that brought plague-infected fleas.
Researchers analyzed tree rings and historical records to link climate instability to the pandemic.
Experts note that climate change may raise zoonotic risks, especially in light of COVID-19.

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Story summary

A study by the University of Cambridge and the Leibniz Institute finds that a volcanic eruption around 1345 triggered climate disruptions linked to the Black Death in Europe.
The eruption caused crop failures, prompting grain imports from the Black Sea that brought plague-infected fleas.
Researchers analyzed tree rings and historical records to link climate instability to the pandemic.
Experts note that climate change may raise zoonotic risks, especially in light of COVID-19.