The ancient city of Pompeii, located near modern-day Naples, Italy, was one of the most prosperous Roman cities until its sudden destruction in 79 AD. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried the city under a thick blanket of volcanic ash and pumice, preserving it for centuries. This article provides a timeline of the final hours leading up to the catastrophe that sealed Pompeii’s fate.

August 24, 79 AD

Morning: Signs of Impending Doom

Pompeii residents began their day as usual, unaware of the looming disaster. However, unusual seismic activity had been reported in the preceding days. Small tremors were common in the region, but many disregarded them, not realizing they were warnings of a major eruption.

Midday: Vesuvius Erupts

Around noon, Mount Vesuvius violently erupted, sending a towering column of ash and gases into the sky. The eruption column reached approximately 20 miles (32 km) high. Pumice and ash began to fall on Pompeii, blanketing the city in darkness. Many residents panicked, while others sought shelter inside their homes, hoping the disaster would pass.

Afternoon: Ash and Pumice Rain Down

By the afternoon, a continuous rain of volcanic debris buried the city’s streets. Roofs of homes and buildings started collapsing under the weight. People who attempted to flee struggled against the thickening ash. The air became toxic, making breathing increasingly difficult.

Evening: Pyroclastic Flows Begin

As night fell, the situation worsened. A series of pyroclastic surges—fast-moving currents of hot gas, ash, and rock—rushed down the volcano’s slopes at speeds over 100 mph (160 km/h). These flows were lethal, incinerating everything in their path. shutdown123