Recent satellite observations have documented a significant volcanic eruption at Hayli Gubbi, a shield volcano located in Ethiopia’s remote Danakil Depression. The event, captured by NASA’s Aqua satellite in late November 2025, provides the first modern record of activity from this previously understudied volcano. The eruption sent an ash plume nearly 9 miles (15 kilometers) into the atmosphere, drifting northeast and disrupting air travel as far as India.
The Danakil Depression: A Volcanic Hotspot
The Danakil Depression is one of Earth’s most geologically active regions. Situated at the intersection of the African and Arabian tectonic plates, the area is characterized by thinning crust and frequent magma upwelling. This makes it a prime location for volcanic activity, although its remoteness means many events go unrecorded.
Why this matters: The Danakil Depression’s unique geological setting allows scientists to study plate tectonics and volcanic processes in real-time. The eruption of Hayli Gubbi provides a baseline for future monitoring, offering valuable data on how these forces shape our planet. The lack of historical records for this volcano underscores the importance of continued satellite observation in regions where direct study is limited.
First Observational Record of Hayli Gubbi
Before this recent eruption, there was no modern record of Hayli Gubbi’s activity. Estimates suggest its last major eruption may have occurred thousands of years ago—or perhaps only centuries prior. NASA’s satellite imagery now establishes the first observational record, enabling scientists to track the volcano’s behavior over time.
Why this is significant: The region’s understudied status means that events like this one can go unnoticed for extended periods. Satellite data provides a critical tool for monitoring these remote and volatile environments, giving researchers a better understanding of volcanic hazards and long-term geological trends.
Implications for Volcanic Monitoring
Earth-observing satellites, like NASA’s Aqua, play a crucial role in studying volcanic activity, especially in hard-to-reach areas. By providing continuous, high-resolution imagery, these tools allow scientists to monitor changes in volcanic plumes, lava flows, and thermal activity. This data is essential for assessing risks to nearby populations and infrastructure.
“The eruption of Hayli Gubbi highlights the importance of space-based observation for studying volcanic activity in understudied regions. Without satellite data, many of these events would go unnoticed, limiting our ability to understand and mitigate volcanic hazards.”
The event at Hayli Gubbi underscores the value of long-term satellite monitoring in volcanically active areas, providing crucial data for both scientific research and disaster preparedness.
