Volcanic Ash Movement Update
New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Tuesday that the ash clouds resulting from the volcanic eruption in Ethiopia are anticipated to shift away from India towards China by 7:30 PM.
The ash plume, which caused significant flight disruptions across the nation on Monday and Tuesday, raised alarms regarding air quality and aviation safety in northern and western regions of India.
This plume originated from the Hayli Gubbi volcano in northern Ethiopia, which erupted after being dormant for 12,000 years, sending a massive ash column soaring about 14 kilometers into the atmosphere. High-altitude winds carried the ash cloud eastward across the Red Sea, over Yemen and Oman, and further across the Arabian Sea towards the Indian subcontinent.
As per the IMD’s report on Tuesday, the ash plume has drifted over states including Gujarat, Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. Although the cloud is primarily situated at mid-levels of the atmosphere, it has led to temporary flight disruptions and prompted safety advisories for aviation.
IndiaMetSky Weather previously clarified that the plume is mainly composed of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) with low to moderate levels of volcanic ash.
The platform noted on
The advisory also indicated that while there is a low likelihood of ashfall over the plains, the plume will gradually continue to drift over Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan, with no expected impact on surface air quality.
Authorities have warned that flights might face delays or route changes, and isolated ash particles could potentially reach the ground in certain areas.
The IMD’s latest update brings some relief as the plume is expected to clear by 7:30 PM, alleviating immediate concerns for northern and western India.
Aviation authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure passenger safety, while residents in affected regions are advised to stay alert.
