Abstract. The elaboration of theoretical models, even oversimplified, capable to estimate an expected electromagnetic effect during earthquake preparation process is not less important than the advancement of observational technique to detect seismic-related electromagnetic emission. Here possible mechanisms of ULF electromagnetic noise associated with seismic or volcanic activity are discussed. The electrokinetic (EK) and magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) effects due to an irregular flow of conducting rock fluid or magma flow are being revised. The conventional theory of EK effect in a water-saturated rocks has been advanced by consideration of elliptic-shaped channels. A contribution of both mechanisms to observed ULF signal on the ground is shown to be dependent on the pore channel size/rock permeability. Estimates of magnetic and telluric perturbations caused by magma motion along a volcano throat indicate on the important role of the surrounding rock conductivity. These estimates have proven that the mechanisms under consideration are able to generate ULF electromagnetic emission which could be detected by modern magnetometers under favorable conditions.