India Bracing for Ethiopia Volcanic Ash: When Will it Clear? IMD Offers Update

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A long-dormant Ethiopian volcano, Hayli Gubbi, erupted on Tuesday, sending ash plumes across the Red Sea towards Yemen and Oman. The ash cloud reached India late Monday evening, affecting Delhi and other regions. Meteorological agencies are tracking its path, predicting ash influence over Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi-NCR, Maharashtra, Punjab, and Haryana. The cloud is expected to impact the Himalayas and the Terai belt in Uttar Pradesh, carrying ash, sulphur dioxide, and fine rock particles. The ash cloud is moving at speeds of up to 100-120 km/h over North India, between 15,000-25,000 feet, and can reach up to 45,000 feet. India Meteorological Department Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that the ash plume is headed towards China and is expected to leave India by 7:30 pm local time on Tuesday. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is closely monitoring the situation, using satellite imagery and advisories from Volcanic Ash Advisory Centres and dispersion models. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an advisory to airlines regarding potential flight disruptions. As a result, Akasa Air has cancelled flights to and from Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi scheduled for November 24 and 25. The public is advised to stay updated on the situation as the IMD continues to monitor the ash cloud's movement and impact on various regions in India.