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Thu, Mar

Experts Raise Alarm Of Volcanic Activity In DR Congo

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Volcanic activities have been observed since Monday by experts at the top of Nyamulagira volcano in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to latest data It’s been caused by a movement of lava at shallow depths towards the central crater. The Goma Volcanological Observatory confirmed the development late Monday. The government said there is "no risk" for the moment. "As of 6 p.m. local time, a fiery glow was observed at the top of the Nyamulagira volcano," the volcanological observatory said in a statement, adding that current seismic data indicates "a movement of magmas at shallow depths towards the central crater."


According to the observatory, if the current activity at Nyamulagira leads to an eruption on the flank, the lava would orient itself in the Virunga National Park, which is also home to endangered mountain gorillas. It further called on residents of the city of Goma, located at the foot of the volcano, to "remain calm" and to "go about your business freely."

The observatory however observed that volcanic ash and strands of cooled lava could be blown by wind into inhabited areas.

Residents have been advised to wash vegetables and make use of stored water. Airlines have also been informed to consider the wind direction when flying over the Virunga region.

The United Nations (UN) estimates that currently there is no threat to the city of Goma, which is housing up to 670,000 people.

 

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