Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Lava From Réunion’s Piton de la Fournaise Reaches the Sea for First Time Since 2007

Officials warn of hazardous gas plumes, prompting tighter access restrictions.

Overview

  • The flow entered the Indian Ocean at about 00:20 on March 16, generating large vapor and gas plumes at the coastal cliff.
  • Three lava arms crossed the RN2 between Sainte-Rose and Saint-Philippe and nearly merged, covering roughly 250 meters of roadway.
  • The volcanological observatory says the ocean entry is ongoing and secondary arms are advancing toward the RN2, with one about 2.1 km from the road at midday Monday.
  • Authorities cite sulfur dioxide and suspended particles from lava–seawater reactions, issue fines for illegal parking, and reported evacuating about 50 people due to poor air.
  • The eruption, active since February 13 after a January episode, features low seismicity and an uncertain duration, according to OVPF.