The BRICS TimesMeteorological officials warn that the ash plume will primarily disrupt aircraft operations across the region.
Ash Cloud Approaches Northwest India
A dense ash cloud from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano is moving towards India. This volcano has erupted for the first time in thousands of years. Meteorological experts state it reaches northwest India on Monday night. Officials indicate that aircraft operations are already feeling the impact. The ash is advancing rapidly towards the region. Disruptions will likely continue through the night.
Path of the Volcanic Plume
The ash plume will enter Gujarat soon. It will then move towards Rajasthan, Delhi–NCR, and Punjab. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) says plumes are rising high. They are 10–15 kilometres above the Earth. The cloud contains volcanic ash, sulphur dioxide, and rock particles. The weather department further said the phenomenon will primarily affect flight operations.
Impact on Weather and Visibility
IMD director general M Mohapatra explained the situation clearly. He noted the plumes remain at “upper-levels”. Therefore, people will not see a significant impact near the surface. “It will appear as a hazy, cloudy sky with its impact expected for a few hours, as it continues to move further eastwards,” he said. Mohapatra added that the impact on cities “will mainly be a marginal rise in the temperature”.
Air Quality Concerns
Temperature changes will occur. “Similar to clouds, the minimum will rise. It is unclear whether it will impact air quality, but any significant impact is unlikely as it is at higher levels,” he said. Airlines began cancelling flights on Monday afternoon. The ash cloud traveled across the Red Sea. It drifted towards the Middle East and Central Asia.
Aviation Sector Hit Hard
A Mumbai airport official noted rerouting efforts. Several flights were being rerouted through Pakistan’s airspace to avoid the affected region. “Flights either have to be re-routed or cancelled. While the impact on flight operations are minimal today, the situation is expected to be worse on Tuesday,” another person close to the development said. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
Pollution Levels May Spike
“The ministry officials as well as the DGCA are keeping a close eye on the matter. If the ashes settle over Delhi and Jaipur by Tuesday, Indian aviation is expected to be impacted severely,” he added. Experts said the plume moves rapidly into India. This may spike pollution levels. Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) stood at 382 at 4 pm on Monday.
