Volcano Erupts in NE Ethiopia

ADDIS ABABA, Xinhua: Local media on Monday reported a “sudden and unusual” volcanic eruption in Ethiopia’s northeastern Afar region.

The eruption took place around midday on Sunday, involving the Erta Ale, an active volcano with an active lava lake. A large amount of black smoke was spotted, which “plunged the area into semi-darkness,” the state-run Afar Mass Media Agency reported.

Local authorities have yet to confirm any casualties resulting from the eruption.

According to the media agency, the smoke from the volcanic eruption covered the surrounding area and nearby villages on Sunday, while the “intense explosion” triggered tremors felt in towns and cities far from the eruption site.

Experts and local authorities have urged residents to take necessary precautions due to the substantial amounts of smoke and ash released into the atmosphere.