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New Volcano Erupts Near Erta Ale

Posted on: 2025-11-24 20:16:45

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A previously unknown volcanic vent has erupted near Erta Ale, an area that, according to local residents, had never before exhibited any volcanic activity.

The eruption generated thick plumes of smoke that blanketed the surrounding landscape, plunging nearby villages into semi-darkness for much of the day.

Residents reported that the blast was accompanied by a deafening explosion strong enough to trigger tremors in areas surrounding Erta Ale and Afdera. The suddenness and intensity of the eruption left communities shocked and alarmed. Several witnesses contacted by phone said the sound of the blast travelled astonishing distances, reaching as far as Djibouti, Tigray, and towns in Wollo.

The newly formed volcanic outlet lies approximately eight kilometres from the main Erta Ale crater. According to a young local involved in livestock protection, faint smoke began rising from the area three days ago, but no one anticipated a full eruption.

He explained that the mountain, which had shown no prior signs of instability, suddenly produced an ear-splitting explosion early this morning, filling the region with dense black smoke and reducing visibility to near zero. A local guide reported that the rumbling and explosive sounds continued between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.

By evening, the intensity of the smoke had diminished. The thick black haze that dominated the daytime hours gradually shifted to a lighter, ash-coloured plume.