Post by : Rameen Ariff

A unique volcanic eruption in northern Ethiopia has generated a vast ash cloud that traveled thousands of kilometers, reaching parts of India, including Delhi, late on Sunday. This unexpected occurrence has disrupted flight operations and raised fresh concerns regarding the already poor air quality in the capital.

The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region erupted early Sunday morning, spewing thick smoke and ash nearly 14 kilometers into the sky. This marks the first known eruption in nearly 12,000 years. Strong winds—ranging from 100 to 120 km per hour—carried the ash across the Red Sea and into the Arabian Peninsula before affecting India.

By late Sunday, the ash clouds had reached Gujarat and were moving toward Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab. Residents in northern India reported hazy skies as the ash traveled eastward.

Ash Cloud Trajectory and Weather Advisory

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicated that powerful upper-level winds propelled the ash from Ethiopia into India. Officials stated that the ash cloud is projected to move further toward China, with expectations of clearing Indian skies by Monday evening.

Meteorologists noted the plume contains sulphur dioxide and limited volcanic ash. While it might not drastically impact India’s air quality index, there could be a temporary rise in sulphur levels in areas close to the Himalayas and the Nepal border.

Flight Disruptions and Airline Precautions

The ash cloud caused significant disruptions in air travel, prompting Indian aviation authorities to issue advisories for airlines to steer clear of affected routes to prevent engine issues.

Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have taken necessary precautions. Air India canceled eleven flights, including those from Newark to Delhi, New York to Delhi, and Dubai to Hyderabad. The airline stated that safety checks were essential for any aircraft that might have entered the ash-impacted zone.

IndiGo reassured passengers that their teams are closely monitoring the situation and have implemented safety measures in collaboration with international aviation authorities. Other airlines have also modified flight routes and schedules to prioritize passenger safety.

Local Effects in Ethiopia

In Ethiopia’s Afar region, locals reported hearing a loud sound akin to an explosion upon the volcano’s eruption. Nearby villages were covered in ash, and thick smoke could be seen for miles. The volcano is situated in the Rift Valley, a seismically active zone where tectonic plates continually pull apart, heightening the risk of earthquakes and volcanic activity.

A Unique Geological Phenomenon

Experts have stated that the Hayli Gubbi volcano has not erupted in the last 12,000 years, making this occurrence exceptionally rare. Online videos displayed towering white and gray plumes ascending into the atmosphere, although many of the visuals could not be immediately authenticated.

Authorities in Ethiopia and its neighboring regions continue to monitor the situation, as further geological activity and aftershocks remain a possibility.

#Global