Recent news reports have highlighted a raging fire on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. While it is not clear why the fire started, dry weather and strong winds have aided its rapid dissemination. This event has brought attention to this majestic mountain, sparking interest in understanding more about its geological composition, historical significance, and vulnerability to climate change.
About Mount Kilimanjaro
Located in the East African nation of Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro stands tall as the continent’s highest mountain at approximately 5,895 meters. Unique in its standing, it is the world’s largest free-standing mountain rise, meaning it isn’t part of any mountain range.
The Structure of Mount Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro is a stratovolcano or composite volcano, which is a term for a large volcano composed of layers of ash, lava, and rock. The mountain comprises three cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. The summit of the mountain is Kibo, making it the tallest of the three volcanic formations. While both Mawenzi and Shira are extinct, Kibo remains dormant with the potential to erupt again. Scientists estimate that the last eruption occurred approximately 360,000 years ago.
Climate Change and Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is also recognized for its snow-capped peak. However, scientists warn that these snow caps may vanish within the next two decades due to the impact of climate change.
Kilimanjaro National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1973, to safeguard its unique environment, the mountain and its six surrounding forest corridors were designated as Kilimanjaro National Park. In recognition of its universal value, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared the park a World Heritage site in 1987. The park has since become a popular destination for tourists around the world, with tens of thousands flocking to climb it every year.
The Science behind Volcanoes
A volcano is an opening on the surface of a planet that allows warmer material from its interior to escape. This process results in a volcanic eruption, which can range from explosive, propelling material high into the sky, to more tranquil with gentle flows of material. On Earth, the erupted material may include liquid rock (known as “lava” when it’s on the surface and “magma” when it’s underground), ash, cinders, or gas. Understanding these volcanic processes is crucial to predicting volcanic behavior and mitigating potential risks.