Massive ash clouds from Ethiopia's volcano reach India, disrupting flights and contaminating the skies.

Have you ever seen ash clouds ascend to heights of 24,000 to 45,000 feet? Anyone can be astounded by these massive smoke clouds. A volcano in Ethiopia abruptly erupted after almost 12,000 years of quiet, and the effects were felt all the way to India.

Everyone was astounded to see thick volcanic ash floating across the sky. Following the eruption, these enormous clouds appeared to be swiftly spreading black storms. On November 23, 2025, Ethiopia's Halley Gubbi volcano erupted for the first time in thousands of years, spreading shockwaves through neighboring areas. Terrified, people started running to safer places as they watched the sky full with ash clouds.

Between 25,000 and 45,000 feet in height, these ash clouds floated above Delhi, Rajasthan, and various regions of North India. Many overseas flights were either canceled or rerouted as a result.

Toxic haze was present in Delhi's Anand Vihar, AIIMS, and Safdarjung neighborhoods, where the Air Quality Index exceeded 400. Airlines were advised by the aviation authority to change their routes and avoid flying over areas hit by ash. If pilots saw volcanic ash in midair, they were to report it right away.

In addition to ash, the eruption released large amounts of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which scientists believe could have negative effects on the environment and human health. Increased volcanic pressure beneath the surface is also indicated by rising SO₂ levels, which raises the prospect of more eruptions.

The fact that no volcanic activity from this location was documented throughout the Holocene period adds to the event's unexpectedness. Volcano scientists throughout the world have been perplexed by this unexpected outburst.

The ash cloud traveled thousands of kilometers, crossing the Red Sea, floating over the Arabian Peninsula, and ultimately arriving to the Indian subcontinent, according to satellite imagery from international space agencies.

The volcanic ash that was drifting into India is now gradually receding, according to the Indian Meteorological Department. By 7:30 PM on Tuesday, the clouds are predicted to totally leave Indian skies as they move into China. There is now nothing to be concerned about, and authorities are still keeping a close eye on the issue.