Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi Volcano Erupts After 12,000 Years

The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region erupted on November 23, marking its first known activity in nearly 12,000 years. The long-dormant volcano sent thick ash plumes up to 14 kilometres into the atmosphere, prompting regional monitoring centres and aviation authorities to issue alerts.

First Eruption Since the Holocene

Located about 800 kilometres northeast of Addis Ababa near the Eritrean border, the volcano sits within the seismically active Rift Valley. Experts confirmed that Hayli Gubbi had no record of eruptive activity throughout the Holocene period, making this event exceptionally rare. The eruption lasted several hours and produced visible ash clouds that spread widely.

Ash Drift Across Multiple Countries

The Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre reported that ash from the eruption drifted over Yemen, Oman, India and northern Pakistan. Satellite imagery showed dense columns rising high above the crater. Residents in nearby Ethiopian villages witnessed heavy ash fall, though official updates on casualties or displacement are yet to be released.

Scientific Confirmation and Global Monitoring

Volcanologists, including Simon Carn of Michigan Technological University, verified that the volcano had been inactive for millennia. The Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program also reaffirmed the absence of any known Holocene eruptions. These assessments highlight the significance of renewed volcanic activity in the Afar region.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Hayli Gubbi erupted on 23 November 2025 after nearly 12,000 years of dormancy.
• Ash plumes rose up to 14 km, as observed by global monitoring centres.
• The volcano is located in the Afar region within the tectonically active Rift Valley.
• Ash drift impacted Yemen, Oman, India and northern Pakistan.

Regional Impact and Ongoing Assessment

Authorities continue to monitor ash movement and potential risks to nearby communities and air travel. With aviation routes in parts of West Asia and South Asia already under review, further advisories are expected as the situation develops and scientific teams assess the full impact of the rare eruption.