Ethiopia's Hayli Gubbi volcano erupts, ash cloud drifts toward India
Ethiopia's Hayli Gubbi volcano just erupted for the first time in nearly 10,000 years, sending a huge ash plume 45,000 feet into the sky.
The ash is now drifting across Yemen and Oman and could reach northern India soon—affecting both travel plans and local communities along its path.
How is air travel reacting?
Aviation authorities—including India's—have warned airlines to avoid flying through the ash cloud and to report any engine trouble right away.
Because of this, flights in western and northern India may be rerouted or delayed to keep everyone safe.
What's happening on the ground?
In Ethiopia, villages and grazing lands have been hit by falling ash, but thankfully no injuries have been reported so far.
General recommendations for volcanic ash exposure suggest staying indoors with windows shut and wearing N95 masks outside to protect lungs and eyes from irritation.