A massive ash cloud from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano has drifted across the Red Sea and Arabian Sea, moving into India and affecting regions including Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, Maharashtra and parts of the western Himalayas. The plume contains volcanic ash, sulphur dioxide and fine rock particles that can irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory system.
As the ash cloud continues to pass over northern and western India, experts have urged citizens to take immediate precautions. Meteorological agencies are monitoring the plume’s movement closely, as high-altitude winds may cause ash to settle unpredictably over different regions.
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To help people protect themselves, here are 9 urgent safety steps recommended for residents in affected areas:
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9 steps you should take immediately
- Limit outdoor exposure: Avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary. Keep doors and windows tightly shut.
- Secure your living space: Use damp towels, cloth pieces or tape to block gaps around windows and under doors to stop ash from entering.
- Minimise outside air intake: Turn off ACs or ventilation systems that pull in outside air. Avoid exhaust fans that draw external air into your home.
- Use the right mask: If stepping out is unavoidable, wear a NIOSH-approved N95 mask to prevent inhaling ash particles.
- Shield your eyes and skin: Use protective glasses or goggles, and wear long sleeves and full-length pants to avoid irritation.
- Cut down on road travel: Ash can reduce visibility and affect vehicles. If travel is necessary, drive slowly with windows closed.
- Check aviation warnings: DGCA has issued alerts as volcanic ash can damage aircraft engines.
- Delay flight plans: Postpone air travel until authorities declare the situation safe.
- Stay updated: Follow credible weather and air-quality updates for real-time ash-cloud tracking and health advisories.
Once the ash settles, residents should clean carefully by lightly wetting the ash to prevent it from becoming airborne again. Staying alert and following advisories will help minimise risks until the ash cloud fully passes.