Volcanic eruption La Palma: lava reaches the sea – experts now fear fatal consequences

After a volcanic eruption on La Palma, lava flows from the top of the rocks into the sea. Steam clouds rise. Experts warn of toxic gases.

SANTA CRUZ – Ten days after a volcanic eruption on La Palma, the time has come: a massive lava flow has reached the coast of Holiday Island and flowed into the Atlantic. The scenario was expected, but the moment is fascinating and terrifying at the same time. Lava falls into the sea from a cliff about a hundred meters high near a beach near Tzacourt. Shortly before that the entire port area was evacuated. The Spanish government on Tuesday declared the Canary Islands of La Palma a disaster zone.

Volcanic eruption on La Palma – fear of toxic gases

During the night, the Canary Islands Volcanology Institute tweeted: “The lava flow reaches the sea at Playa Nueva.” Hot lava rocks fall into the ocean, rising clouds of steam. They are haunting recordings. A few hours ago, lava rolled off the coastal area meter by meter. The authorities have created a restricted area within a 3.5 km radius of the affected area. Curfew has been imposed in four cities. West Coast residents are urged to close doors and windows and seal themselves with tape and wet towels to protect themselves from toxic gases, reports Pawn.

“Exposure to or exposure to corrosive gases or liquids can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract and cause difficulty breathing, especially in people with pre-existing respiratory diseases,” says Canary Islands Volcanoes Institute gives a warning. “Find a safe place to take refuge when you’re out,” tweeted canarian security authority.

Soon after, experts Volcanic eruption from dangerous gases on La Palma – a poisonous cloud warned. A dangerous reaction occurs if extremely hot lava mixes with salty seawater. Toxic fumes containing hydrochloric acid and small volcanic crystals may form. According to experts, boiling hot tidal waves are also possible.

Volcanic eruption on La Palma: lava masses flow into the ocean

The exclusion zone is monitored by water. Research ships are also on site. Lava continues to flow into the sea. “A lava delta is beginning to form, slowly gaining land in the ocean,” tweeted the Instituto Espaol de Oceanographia. A clip shows what that means. A 50 m high lava pyramid has formed off the coast.

Volcano eruption on La Palma

The volcano in the Cumbre Vieja region of La Palma erupted for the first time in 50 years on September 19. The outbreak was first announced by so-called swarm earthquakes. Researchers warn against this. Nonetheless, the Canary Islands were shocked by a major eruption. The situation changes every hour. recently Vulcan took a haunting pause. 6,000 people have already had to leave their homes. More than 650 houses have been destroyed by the lava. Many have lost everything. The loss is huge. Experts believe that the volcano will remain active for weeks or even months. volcanic eruptions La Palma also deserves attention in Europe. a giant sulfur cloud Keeps spreading. (ml) *mercur.d an offer from ippn.media

Header List Image: © Saul Santos / dpa