The Galapagos archipelago off the coast of Ecuador faces a new natural challenge as the La Cumbre volcano erupts, on the uninhabited Fernandina Island, threatening a unique array of animal species.

Published 2 months ago

Officials from Ecuador’s Geophysical Institute said it could be the largest eruption La Cumbre has seen since 2017. The 1,476-metre volcano last erupted in 2020.

The La Cumbre volcano is one of the most active in the Galápagos Island chain, which is famous throughout the world for helping 19th century British scientist Charles Darwin develop his theory of evolution.  There are no humans living on Fernandina Island which is home to a number of species including iguanas, penguins and flightless cormorants.

The Geophysical Institute’s reports indicate that La Cumbre’s eruption involved a considerable gas cloud, reaching up to three kilometers into the air but fortunately dispersed by the wind away from human settlements. Despite the lack of immediate threat to populated areas, the unpredictable nature of the eruption, including its duration and the potential for lava to reach the sea, has prompted authorities to advise tourists to steer clear of affected areas. The institute remains vigilant, monitoring the eruption’s progression and its impact on the island’s wildlife and ecosystem.

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Related News:

• Volcanic Island Erupts Where Last Known Fantastic Giant Tortoise Found (Euronews)
• La Cumbre Eruption Threatens Unique Wildlife (BNN News)

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