Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Volcano erupts in northern Ethiopia, sending ash plumes toward Yemen and Oman

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – The Hayli Gubbi volcano, located in the Afar region of Ethiopia, has erupted after being dormant for many years. The eruption occurred on Sunday morning, sending ash plumes across the Red Sea towards Yemen and Oman. The neighboring village of Afdera was covered in a thick layer of dust, causing concern among residents.

The local administrator, Mohammed Seid, reported that the eruption was sudden and unexpected. He stated that the last time the volcano erupted was over a hundred years ago. The eruption caused panic among the villagers, who had never experienced such an event before. However, there were no reported injuries or casualties.

The Hayli Gubbi volcano is situated in the Afar region, which is known for its active volcanic activity. This region is also home to the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. The area is a popular destination for tourists, who come to witness the unique landscape and geological formations.

The eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano has attracted the attention of scientists and volcanologists from around the world. They are closely monitoring the situation to understand the cause and potential impact of the eruption. The Ethiopian government has also taken necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the residents in the affected areas.

The eruption has caused ash plumes to spread across the Red Sea towards Yemen and Oman. The ash has also reached the capital city, Addis Ababa, located about 500 kilometers away from the volcano. However, authorities have assured that there is no immediate threat to the city and its residents.

The eruption has also caused disruptions in air travel, with several flights being diverted or cancelled. The Ethiopian Airlines, the country’s national carrier, has issued a statement advising passengers to check their flight status before traveling. The airline has also stated that they are working closely with the authorities to ensure the safety of their passengers.

Despite the disruption and inconvenience caused by the eruption, the Ethiopian government sees this as an opportunity to promote the country’s tourism sector. The Afar region, with its unique landscape and active volcanic activity, has always been a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The government is confident that this event will attract more tourists to the region, boosting the local economy and creating job opportunities for the residents.

The eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano has also brought attention to the need for better disaster preparedness and management in the country. The Ethiopian government has already taken steps to improve its disaster management capabilities, and this event serves as a reminder to continue working towards this goal.

The eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano may have caused temporary disruptions and concerns, but it has also brought opportunities for growth and development. The Ethiopian government, along with the people of Afar, is determined to turn this event into a positive one. They are confident that with proper precautions and measures, the affected areas will soon return to normalcy.

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