The Goma Volcanological Observatory (OVG) has recently reported that the Nyamuragira volcano in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is showing signs of activity.
According to the OVG, current seismic data suggests that magma is moving at shallow depths towards the central crater of the volcano.
Volcanologists have also observed a glow at the top of the Nyamuragira volcano, which indicates a movement of lava towards the central crater at shallow depths. The last major eruption of the Nyamuragira volcano occurred in 2011, which was the most significant eruption in the last 100 years.
The Nyamuragira volcano is situated in the Virunga national park, which is home to endangered mountain gorillas. The OVG has warned that if a new eruption occurs, the lava will flow towards the park. However, there is no threat to the city of Goma, which is home to approximately 670,000 people, according to UN estimates.
Although there is no immediate danger to the people of Goma, the OVG has advised residents to remain calm and continue with their daily activities. In a statement, the OVG has also urged residents to wash their vegetables and use stored water, as volcanic ash and strands of cooled lava could be blown by wind into inhabited areas.
Airlines have also been advised to consider the wind direction when flying over the Virunga region. Nyamuragira is Africa’s most active volcano and has erupted more than 40 times since 1885.