Volcanic eruption in Ethiopia sends ash clouds as far as 4,000 km away to India

Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) – A massive volcanic eruption recently occurred in the Hayli Gubbi region of Ethiopia. This volcano is said to have erupted after nearly 10,000 years; and its impact has been felt across thousands of kilometres. The eruption spewed towering clouds of ash, sulphur dioxide, and even glass particles into the atmosphere.

After passing over neighbouring Oman and Yemen, these clouds drifted further, reaching India via Gujarat. Meteorologists state that the plume will move towards China within a few hours. The event has significantly affected air traffic, forcing rerouting and operational delays.

The volcanic eruption occurred on 23 November in eastern Ethiopia. Such was its intensity that the ash and rocky debris shot 14 to 15 kilometres into the sky. Although the eruption continues, its intensity has now reduced; however, its atmospheric impact has spread far and wide.