Ethiopia‘s Hayli Gubbi Volcano Erupts After Nearly 12,000 Years of Dormancy
AFAR REGION, ETHIOPIA – The Hayli Gubbi Volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region erupted on November 23, 2025, marking the frist eruption from the long-dormant volcano in almost 12,000 years.Residents reported a sudden, explosive event, describing the experience as feeling “like a sudden bomb.” The eruption has prompted concern for local communities and raised questions about potential long-term impacts on the region’s geological stability.
The eruption occurred in a sparsely populated area of the Afar region, a known geological hotspot in eastern Ethiopia. While initial reports indicate no immediate casualties, the event underscores the volatile nature of the East African Rift valley and the potential for unexpected geological activity. The Afar Government interaction Bureau released photographs showing ash billowing into the sky, observed by local residents. The eruption’s importance lies not only in its rarity but also in the potential for further seismic activity and the disruption of local life.
Hayli Gubbi is part of a volcanic range and lies within the Afar Depression, a geological depression formed by the divergence of three tectonic plates.This region is characterized by volcanic activity, rifting, and seismic events. The last known eruption from Hayli Gubbi occurred approximately 12,000 years ago,making this event a significant geological occurrence. Scientists are currently analyzing data to assess the scale of the eruption and monitor for any further activity.
The associated Press contributed to this report.
