Afar Region, Ethiopia — A new volcanic eruption has erupted near the main Ertale volcano, marking a significant geological event in the region, according to the Afar Tourism Bureau.
Since yesterday, volcanic activity has intensified at four separate locations within a 15-kilometer radius of the Ertale volcano, a prominent and active volcano in the Afar Depression. The regional tourism bureau confirmed that the new eruptions were directly triggered by an explosion of the main Ertale volcano.
Ato Abdu Ahmed, the bureau’s Director of Tourism Promotion and Market Development, spoke to EBC News regarding the incident. He explained that the four eruption sites exhibited smoke plumes with visible internal fire, indicating ongoing volcanic activity. “Although it looked like smoke, there was indeed fire inside these explosion sites,” Ato Abdu said.
The recent explosion has also caused notable geological changes to Ertale’s structure. Reports indicate that both the Northern and Southern Craters of the volcano are expanding as a result of the recent eruptions, a development that may influence future volcanic behavior and landscape changes.
Despite the sudden and intense volcanic activity, there have been no injuries reported among local residents or tourists. Several tourists from Israel and Japan who happened to be in the vicinity at the time of the eruption were reportedly surprised by the explosion but remained unharmed, according to Ato Abdu.
The Afar region is known for its geological volatility, hosting several active volcanoes and rift zones, making it a unique destination for adventurous travelers and scientists alike. The tourism bureau continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of visitors and residents.
Authorities have urged the public to stay informed and maintain a safe distance from the eruption sites, while updates on the volcanic activity will be provided as new information becomes available.
Source: EBC News
