After 12,000 years of dormancy, the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region has erupted, sending ash plumes across continents and impacting air travel in India. The eruption on Sunday morning spewed thick smoke up to 14 kilometers into the atmosphere, with ash clouds reaching Delhi and surrounding regions already grappling with air quality issues.
The volcanic ash traveled at speeds of 100-120 km/h, crossing the Arabian Sea and reaching Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported the ash cloud’s movement towards China, expecting it to clear Indian skies by evening.
In response to the event, India’s aviation authorities issued advisories, urging airlines to avoid ash-affected areas and report any engine-related anomalies. Several airlines, including Air India and IndiGo, faced disruptions. Air India cancelled eleven flights to conduct precautionary checks on aircraft that had flown over affected zones, prioritizing passenger safety.
While the ash plume primarily consists of sulphur dioxide, experts anticipate minimal impact on India’s Air Quality Index (AQI). However, there is a potential for increased SO2 levels in the Himalayan region and adjoining areas.
The Hayli Gubbi volcano, situated in the geologically active Rift Valley, had been dormant for approximately 12,000 years. This eruption marks a significant geological event with far-reaching consequences.
Image Credit: NDTV
