The recent volcanic eruption at La Palma, one of Spain’s Canary Islands, has thrust the Cumbre Vieja volcano into the international spotlight. This significant geological event marks the first eruption in 50 years, with lava last seen spreading in 1971. The geography of La Palma, encompassing some 708 square kilometres, is a product of its volcanic origins and ranks it fifth in size among the archipelago’s eight main islands. Moreover, the Canary Islands, a collection of volcanoes situated off Africa’s western coast, have experienced volcanic activity for approximately 20 million years, adding further intrigue to this geologically active region. In parallel with the eruption at La Palma, there have been other recently reported volcanic eruptions worldwide, in destinations as diverse as Hawaii, Japan, Ecuador, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Even India, with hot spots in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Haryana, and the Andaman Islands, is not immune to this phenomenon.
The Cumbre Vieja Eruption: An Overview
The Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted recently, making it the first time in half a century that this geographically significant event has occurred. The volcanic formation of La Palma, most famous for its peak, the Roque de los Muchachos, at 2,423 metres, is the second-highest among the Canary Islands, bettered only by the Teide massif on Tenerife.
Canary Islands: A Geological Insight
Situated off the western coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a chain of volcanoes that have experienced consistent volcanic activity for roughly 20 million years. Among these islands, La Palma holds the distinction of being the fifth largest, boasting an area of 708 square kilometres. These islands comprise the Spanish provinces of Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Recent Volcanic Activity Worldwide
However, the Cumbre Vieja eruption is not an isolated incident. Other recent and notable volcanic eruptions have occurred around the globe. The Kilauea volcano in Hawaii, Fukutoku-Okanoba in Japan, Sangay in Ecuador, Taal in the Philippines, and Mt. Sinabung, Merapi volcano, and Semeru volcano in Indonesia have all experienced recent volcanic activity.
India’s Volcanic Landscape
India also experiences its fair share of volcanic activities. The nation’s only active volcano is located on Barren Island in the Andaman Islands. However, there are also several dormant or extinct volcanoes, with sites in Narcondam, Baratang (both in the Andaman Islands), Deccan Traps in Maharashtra, Dhinodhar Hills in Gujarat, and Dhosi Hill in Haryana.
This overview of the recent eruption at La Palma’s Cumbre Vieja and other global volcanic activity underscores the need for continued research and monitoring to better understand these geological phenomena and mitigate their potential risk to communities.
