A rare volcanic eruption has taken place in Ethiopia, marking the first occurrence in 10,000 years. The Hayli Gubbi volcano, situated in the Afar region, erupted on Sunday, releasing thick ash and smoke into the atmosphere.
Impact on Local Communities and Agriculture
This eruption has severely affected nearby villages, covering them in volcanic dust. The ash has created significant challenges for local farmers and livestock herders, as reported by local administrator Mohammed Seid. Fortunately, there have been no reports of casualties.
- Local residents described the eruption as a terrifying blast, reminiscent of an explosive bomb.
- Ahmed Abdela, a local witness, shared his shock at the event.
Global Reach of the Eruption
The effects of the Hayli Gubbi eruption extend far beyond Ethiopia. Satellite imagery from NASA highlighted thick plumes of ash, which have spread across the Red Sea into neighboring countries. The Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Center reported that the volcanic clouds reached Yemen, Oman, and further into Pakistan and India.
Air Travel Disruptions
The eruption has also triggered significant disruptions in air travel. In Pakistan, the Meteorological Department issued warnings as ash entered its airspace. Meanwhile, Air India canceled several domestic and international flights to conduct precautionary checks on affected aircraft.
Future Predictions
India’s Meteorological Department (IMD) noted that while Delhi is currently faced with severe air pollution, the high-altitude drift of the ash is not expected to significantly impact the capital. The ashes are anticipated to move eastward rapidly.
Geological Significance of Hayli Gubbi
The Hayli Gubbi volcano is located approximately 800 kilometers (500 miles) northeast of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital. As the southernmost volcano in the Erta Ale Range, it stands at about 500 meters in elevation and is situated in a geologically active zone where two tectonic plates converge.
This recent volcanic activity serves as a reminder of the Earth’s dynamic geological processes and their potential impacts on both local communities and regions far beyond the eruption site.
