Volcanic Eruption in Ethiopia’s Afar Region Sparks Health and Aviation Crisis
A rare and powerful volcanic eruption in Ethiopia’s remote Afar region has spewed heavy ash over local villages, creating a dual crisis for residents on the ground and air travel across the region.
The Hayli Gubbi volcano, which had been dormant for thousands of years, roared back to life, blanketing the area of Afdera in a thick layer of volcanic ash. The fallout has severely impacted the daily lives of local communities, with residents reporting persistent coughing and facing contaminated water sources.
The situation is particularly dire for livestock, a cornerstone of the local economy. Officials report that the ash has choked pastures, leaving animals without clean grass, and has polluted wells, threatening their survival. In response, emergency support, including health and veterinary services, is being mobilized to address the urgent needs.
The eruption’s impact extended far beyond the immediate region. The resulting ash cloud drifted into major international flight corridors, leading to significant travel disruption. Airlines were forced to cancel dozens of routes as a precaution against the abrasive ash, which can be extremely hazardous to aircraft engines.
Meteorologists have provided a glimmer of relief, indicating that the ash-filled conditions are expected to begin clearing on Wednesday, allowing for a potential return to normal flight operations and a respite for the affected communities below.
About The Author
