Ethiopian Volcano Erupts for First Time in Twelve Millennia
A volcanic peak in north-eastern the Ethiopian region has exploded for the first time in nearly 12,000 years, sending thick columns of smoke up to 9 miles (14km) into the atmosphere, as reported by volcanological observers.
The Hayli Gubbi, located in Ethiopia’s Afar region about 500 miles north-east of the capital Addis Ababa near the border with Eritrea, burst forth on Sunday for several hours.
This volcano, which stands about 500 metres in altitude, sits within the Great Rift Valley, a zone of significant tectonic movement where multiple tectonic plates converge.
Ash clouds from the eruption traveled over the nation of Yemen, Oman's airspace, India and northern Pakistan, monitoring sources stated.
Satellite imagery depicting volcanic debris from the Hayli Gubbi volcanic eruption in Ethiopia.
In footage circulated on social media, a heavy plume of white smoke could be seen ascending, though confirmation was pending.
International volcanic activity programs noted that Hayli Gubbi has had no known eruptions during the Holocene, which started about 12,000 years ago at the conclusion of the most recent glacial period.
A volcanic expert confirmed on a social platform that this volcano “has no record of eruptions in the Holocene”.
Regional authorities have yet to responded regarding possible injuries or the number of evacuees.
