Mount Fentale’s Methane Emission: A Rare Volcanic Phenomenon with Global Climate Implications

Mount Fentale’s Methane Emission: A Rare

Volcanic Phenomenon with Global Climate 

Implications

Introduction

In an unprecedented event, massive methane plumes have been observed emitting from Mount Fentale, a stratovolcano located in Ethiopia’s East African Rift Valley. This event has drawn significant attention from both climate scientists and volcanologists due to its potential impact on climate change and geological activity.

Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential (GWP) 80 times higher than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. Most methane emissions are anthropogenic, originating from fossil fuel extraction, agriculture, and landfill decomposition. However, natural methane emissions from volcanoes are rarely documented.

This article explores:

✔ What is a stratovolcano?
✔ Mount Fentale's geological significance
✔ Why is methane being released?
✔ Methane's role in global warming
✔ Scientific studies and climate models
✔ Future implications for climate and tectonic activity

---

1. Understanding Stratovolcanoes

What is a Stratovolcano?

A stratovolcano (or composite volcano) is a type of tall, conical volcano built by alternating layers of lava, ash, and volcanic rock. These volcanoes are known for explosive eruptions and are commonly found in subduction zones where one tectonic plate sinks beneath another.

Characteristics of Stratovolcanoes

✔ Steep, symmetrical shape with towering peaks.
✔ Alternating layers of hardened lava and ash deposits.
✔ Highly viscous magma that traps gases, leading to violent eruptions.
✔ Commonly found at tectonic boundaries, particularly in subduction zones.

Famous Stratovolcanoes Around the World

• Mount Fuji (Japan) – One of the most iconic volcanoes, last erupted in 1707.
• Mount Vesuvius (Italy) – Known for the 79 AD eruption that buried Pompeii.
• Mount Etna (Italy) – One of the most active stratovolcanoes globally.
• Mount Rainier (USA) – Considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes due to its proximity to Seattle.
• Krakatoa (Indonesia) – Its 1883 eruption caused a global temperature drop due to the release of volcanic aerosols.

---

2. Mount Fentale: Geological Significance and Volcanic Activity

Location and Geological Background

• Mount Fentale is situated in Ethiopia’s East African Rift Valley, an area where the African Plate is slowly splitting into two.
• The last known eruption occurred in 1820, meaning it has been dormant for over 200 years.
• The surrounding area has active hot springs, geothermal vents, and fumaroles, indicating that magma is still beneath the surface.

Recent Methane Emission from Mount Fentale

• Scientists have detected large methane plumes escaping from the crater and fissures around the volcano.
• These methane emissions have been detected via satellite monitoring, infrared imaging, and ground-based spectrometry.
• Methane emissions from a non-erupting volcano are extremely rare, raising concerns about geological activity and climate impact.

---

3. The Science Behind Methane Plumes from Volcanoes

What Are Methane Plumes?

A methane plume refers to a concentrated release of methane gas into the atmosphere. While most methane emissions are linked to oil and gas production, agriculture, and permafrost melt, natural sources like volcanoes are uncommon.

Why is Mount Fentale Releasing Methane?

Scientists propose several possible explanations:

1. Magma-Induced Methane Release

• Heat from magma chambers beneath the surface could be unlocking deep methane reservoirs trapped in underground rock formations.

2. Organic Decomposition Beneath the Volcano

• Ancient organic material buried deep underground could be breaking down due to geothermal heat, releasing methane gas.

3. Tectonic Activity in the East African Rift

• Cracks in the Earth's crust from rifting and fault movements may be allowing subsurface methane deposits to escape.

4. Hydrothermal Processes and Gas Dissociation

• Hydrothermal vents beneath the volcano may be releasing methane stored in methane hydrates (frozen methane deposits within rock formations).

---

4. Methane’s Impact on Climate Change

How Potent is Methane?

✔ Methane (CH₄) is 80 times more potent than CO₂ in trapping heat over a 20-year period.
✔ Methane’s atmospheric lifetime is shorter than CO₂, but its immediate warming impact is significantly higher.
✔ Large methane emissions contribute to extreme weather, rising temperatures, and Arctic ice melt.

Potential Climate Impacts of Volcanic Methane

✔ If volcanic methane emissions become widespread, they could significantly impact global methane budgets.
✔ Methane leaks from permafrost, wetlands, and volcanoes could create a feedback loop, accelerating global warming.
✔ Scientists are now investigating whether other dormant volcanoes may also be emitting methane unnoticed.

---

5. How Scientists Are Monitoring the Event

Satellite and Ground-Based Monitoring

🛰 Satellite Observations

• NASA’s GHGSat and ESA’s Copernicus Sentinel-5P satellites are tracking methane levels over Ethiopia.

🔬 Infrared Spectrometry and Gas Sampling

• Researchers are using ground-based spectrometry to analyze gas compositions near Mount Fentale.

📊 Climate Modeling Studies

• Scientists are incorporating volcanic methane emissions into global climate models to understand their long-term impact.

---

6. Potential Implications for Climate and Geology

Climate Change and Global Methane Emissions

✔ If Mount Fentale's methane release is a new trend, scientists may need to revise global methane models.
✔ Large-scale natural methane emissions could alter climate predictions and require new mitigation strategies.

Volcanic and Tectonic Activity Concerns

✔ If methane emissions are caused by subsurface magma movement, it may signal increased volcanic activity.
✔ Future earthquakes or eruptions in the East African Rift could release even more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

7.Conclusion

The methane emissions from Mount Fentale represent a rare and scientifically important event. This discovery is prompting new research into volcanic greenhouse gas emissions, their impact on climate change, and potential tectonic activity in the East African Rift Valley.

As climate scientists and geologists continue to monitor this event, the findings could reshape our understanding of volcanic contributions to atmospheric methane and their role in global warming.

Mars Time Machine: Virtual Model Unlocks Red Planet’s Climate Evolution

Introduction

Scientists have developed a groundbreaking virtual model that acts like a "time machine" to study the climate history of Mars. This model aims to decode the evolution of Mars’ atmosphere, climate, and surface conditions over millions of years. By using advanced simulations and geological data from Mars rovers and orbiters, researchers can now track how Mars transformed from a potentially habitable planet to the barren desert it is today.

Key Highlights of the Mars Climate Evolution Model

Purpose of the Virtual Model

• The model helps scientists understand how Mars’ climate changed over billions of years.
• It simulates past weather patterns, atmospheric conditions, and surface transformations.
• It provides insights into the presence of liquid water in ancient Martian history.

Mars’ Climate Evolution: What We Know So Far

• Early Mars (4 billion years ago): Evidence suggests that Mars once had rivers, lakes, and even a possible ocean.
• Climate Shift (3-2 billion years ago): The planet started losing its atmosphere, reducing the presence of liquid water.
• Present Mars: A dry, cold desert with a thin atmosphere, making it inhospitable for life as we know it.

How the Model Works

• The model uses satellite data from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, ESA’s ExoMars, and China's Tianwen-1.
• AI-powered simulations reconstruct past weather and climate conditions.
• It analyzes how Martian geology changed due to climate fluctuations.
• The model considers solar radiation, volcanic activity, and asteroid impacts that affected Mars’ climate.

---

Major Findings from the Virtual Model

Mars Was Once Warm and Wet

• The model confirms that Mars had a thick atmosphere that supported liquid water.
• Large river valleys and lakebeds found on Mars are strong evidence of past rainfall and water flow.

Catastrophic Atmospheric Loss

• Over time, solar winds stripped away Mars’ atmosphere, reducing its ability to retain heat and water.
• The planet’s magnetic field weakened, accelerating atmospheric loss.

Possibility of Subsurface Water

• The model suggests that some water may still exist beneath Mars’ surface in the form of salty brines.
• These underground reservoirs could be potential habitats for microbial life.

Impact of Volcanic Activity

• Volcanoes like Olympus Mons played a role in altering Mars' climate by releasing greenhouse gases.
• However, volcanic activity declined, leading to further cooling.

 Clues for Future Human Exploration

• Understanding Mars’ past climate helps scientists determine where water resources may exist for future missions.
• The study provides key locations for landing sites for human exploration and potential colonization.

---

Implications for Mars Exploration

Helps in the Search for Life

• This model narrows down locations where Mars may have supported microbial life.
• Future missions, like NASA’s Perseverance and ESA’s Rosalind Franklin rover, will explore these areas.

Assists in Terraforming Studies

• Scientists studying Mars colonization can use this model to simulate atmospheric changes needed for making the planet habitable.

Supports Mars Sample Return Missions

• The model helps identify the best places to collect soil and rock samples to study Mars’ history on Earth.

---

Conclusion

The Mars Time Machine is a revolutionary tool that allows researchers to reconstruct Mars’ climate history and understand the dramatic changes that led to its current state. As space agencies plan future missions and potential colonization, this virtual model will serve as a key scientific tool in unlocking the secrets of the Red Planet.

Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025: India Among the Most Affected Nations

Introduction to Climate Risk Index (CRI)

The Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025 is a globally recognized measure that ranks countries based on their vulnerability to extreme weather events over a defined period. This index assesses the impact of climate-related disasters such as floods, storms, heatwaves, and droughts. It serves as a critical indicator of how climate change affects human lives and economies across different regions.

The CRI 2025, published by German-watch, highlights India's growing vulnerability to climate-related disasters. India has been ranked as the 6th most affected country during 1993-2022, highlighting the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events.

---

Key Findings of CRI 2025

1. India's Climate Vulnerability

   • India faced over 400 extreme weather events between 1993 and 2022.
   • The economic losses due to these disasters exceeded USD 180 billion.
   • The death toll from climate-related disasters was at least 80,000 fatalities in the same period.
   • Frequent natural disasters such as cyclones, floods, droughts, and heatwaves have caused widespread devastation.

2. Methodology of the Climate Risk Index (CRI)
   The CRI is a backward-looking index that ranks countries based on the human and economic toll of extreme weather events. The most affected country receives the highest ranking.

   The CRI methodology considers:

   • Three Hazard Categories:
     • Hydrological events (floods, landslides)
     • Meteorological events (storms, cyclones)
     • Climatological events (heatwaves, droughts)
   • Six Key Indicators:
     • Economic loss in absolute terms (total financial losses)
     • Economic loss in relative terms (loss as a percentage of GDP)
     • Fatalities in absolute terms (total deaths caused by disasters)
     • Fatalities in relative terms (deaths per million people)
     • Number of affected people in absolute terms
     • Number of affected people in relative terms

3. India's Climate Risks and Disasters

   • Cyclones and Storms:
     • India has experienced severe cyclones such as Cyclone Amphan (2020), Cyclone Tauktae (2021), and Cyclone Yaas (2021), leading to widespread destruction.
   • Heatwaves:
     • The intensity and frequency of heatwaves in northern and central India have increased, with temperatures exceeding 45°C in several regions.
   • Floods and Heavy Rainfall:
     • Indian states such as Assam, Bihar, Kerala, and Maharashtra have witnessed devastating floods, displacing millions of people.
   • Droughts:
     • Prolonged dry spells in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Rajasthan have affected agriculture, leading to severe water crises.
       

      
     

     Impact of Climate Change on India

   • Economic Losses:

     • Extreme weather events cause loss of infrastructure, homes, and businesses.
     • Agriculture, which employs nearly 50% of India’s workforce, is severely affected.
     • Coastal cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata are at risk due to rising sea levels.

   • Human Casualties and Displacement:

     • Climate disasters displace millions of people each year.
     • Vulnerable populations, such as farmers, fishermen, and urban poor, face the greatest risks.

   • Food and Water Security Challenges:

     • Unpredictable monsoons lead to crop failures and food shortages.
     • Water scarcity in regions like Bundelkhand and Marathwada is becoming more severe.

   • Public Health Concerns:

     • Heatwaves increase the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and respiratory diseases.
     • Floods cause outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera and dengue.

   ---

   India’s Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Efforts

4. Renewable Energy Initiatives:

   • India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
   • Large-scale investments in solar, wind, and hydropower projects are being made.

5. Disaster Preparedness and Early Warning Systems:

   • The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has improved cyclone tracking and early warning systems.
   • Flood-prone cities are being equipped with better drainage and flood control measures.

6. Afforestation and Carbon Sequestration:

   • Projects like the National Afforestation Programme (NAP) aim to restore degraded forests.
   • Mangrove conservation programs protect coastal areas from storm surges.

7. International Climate Commitments:

   • India has pledged to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2070.
   • The country is an active participant in the Paris Agreement and COP summits.

---

Conclusion: The Need for Urgent Action

The Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025 serves as a wake-up call for India and the global community. The increasing frequency of cyclones, heatwaves, floods, and droughts poses serious challenges to economic growth, public health, and national security.

India must continue its efforts in climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, and renewable energy development to mitigate the risks associated with climate change. Stronger policies, better infrastructure, and community resilience will be key to ensuring a safer and more sustainable future.

Bomb Cyclone: A Rapidly Intensifying Storm

What is a Bomb Cyclone?

A bomb cyclone is an intense, rapidly strengthening storm system that experiences a sudden drop in atmospheric pressure. It is a powerful weather phenomenon that can cause strong winds, heavy rainfall, and extreme snowfall in affected regions.

Key Characteristics of a Bomb Cyclone

Definition:

• A storm is classified as a bomb cyclone when its central air pressure drops by at least 24 millibars (mb) within 24 hours.
• This process is called bombogenesis (rapid intensification of a mid-latitude cyclone).

Formation Process:

• Occurs when cold and warm air masses collide, leading to a sharp pressure drop.
• Typically forms over oceanic regions where there is abundant moisture and heat exchange.
• Can result in extreme weather conditions, including:
  • Hurricane-force winds
  • Heavy snowfall & blizzards
  • Severe thunderstorms & flooding

Occurrence & Types:

• Most bomb cyclones develop over the North Atlantic & Pacific Oceans.
• Can be tropical or non-tropical in nature.
• Often impacts coastal regions, leading to storm surges & high waves.

Recent Example: Storm Éowyn (2024-25 Season)

• Formed over Ireland & Scotland.
• Classified as a bomb cyclone due to its 50-millibar pressure drop in 24 hours.
• Brought strong winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding.

Why are Bomb Cyclones Dangerous?

• Strong Winds: Can reach hurricane-like speeds (over 120 km/h), causing power outages.
• Heavy Snowfall & Blizzards: Leads to road closures & transportation disruptions.
• Coastal Flooding: Due to high tides & storm surges, affecting low-lying areas.
• Rapid Weather Changes: Sudden temperature drops & intense storms.

How to Stay Safe During a Bomb Cyclone?

✔ Stay Indoors: Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.

✔ Prepare Emergency Kits: Stock up on food, water, and batteries.

✔ Monitor Weather Updates: Follow official warnings from meteorological agencies.

✔ Secure Outdoor Objects: Prevent damage from strong winds.

Conclusion

Bomb cyclones are intensifying due to climate change, leading to more frequent and severe storms. Awareness and early preparation are key to reducing their impact.

Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)

The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad, has been honored with the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2025 for its remarkable contributions to disaster management in India.

---

About Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar

• Annual Award announced on January 23rd (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary).
•  Recognizes individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions in disaster management.
• Aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities in India.
• INCOIS received this award for its excellence in ocean disaster monitoring and early warning systems.

---

What is INCOIS?

• Full Name: Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services
• Established: 1999
• Governing Body: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
• Affiliation: Unit of Earth System Science Organisation (ESSO)
• Global Recognition: Permanent member of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).

INCOIS is a premier institution responsible for providing ocean-related advisory services and disaster warnings in India.

---

Key Functions of INCOIS

Ocean Data & Information Services

Monitors oceanic changes and provides real-time information to various stakeholders, including:

• Fishermen 
• Coastal communities 
• Shipping industries 
• Defense & research institutions 

Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC)

Issues timely warnings for:

• Tsunamis 
• Storm surges 
• High waves & swells 
  Plays a crucial role in reducing loss of life and property in coastal regions.

Marine Weather Forecasting

Provides weather alerts related to:

• Cyclones 
• Rough seas 
• Ocean currents 

Ocean State Forecasting

Predicts sea conditions for:

• Navigation & shipping safety 
• Fishing zones optimization 
• Offshore industries development 

Support for Blue Economy Initiatives

Aids sustainable development of ocean resources by:

• Assisting coastal tourism 
• Improving maritime security 
• Enhancing fisheries & marine conservation 

---

Why is INCOIS Important?

• Disaster Preparedness – Protects coastal communities from natural calamities.
• Sustainable Ocean Use – Supports blue economy growth while maintaining ecological balance.
• Global Collaboration – Contributes to international ocean monitoring programs under UNESCO.
• Technological Advancement – Uses satellite data, AI, and high-tech ocean sensors for precise forecasting.

---

Future Prospects

• Advancing AI-driven ocean modeling for better predictions.
• Expanding tsunami monitoring networks for greater accuracy.
• Strengthening India's role in global climate and ocean research.

INCOIS continues to be India’s frontline defense against ocean disasters while ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources. 

Keeling Curve: Tracking the Rise of Atmospheric CO₂

 In 2024, atmospheric CO₂ levels reached a record high, driven by wildfires and human activities, as reported by the Keeling Curve. This alarming rise underscores the accelerating impact of climate change on our planet.

What is the Keeling Curve?

• The Keeling Curve is a graph that tracks the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in Earth's atmosphere over time, measured in parts per million (ppm).
• It is one of the most critical indicators of long-term climate change and global warming trends.

Key Facts About the Keeling Curve

When & Where Did It Begin?

• Continuous CO₂ measurements began in 1958 at the Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii.
• It remains the longest-running and most reliable dataset on atmospheric CO₂ levels.

Who Developed It?

✔ Charles David Keeling, an American scientist, pioneered the first accurate measurements of atmospheric CO₂.
✔ His work proved the direct link between human activities and rising CO₂ levels.

Why is the Keeling Curve Significant?

Climate Change Indicator

• The steady rise in CO₂ levels shown in the Keeling Curve is strong evidence of global warming.
• It reflects the impact of burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial activities.

Record CO₂ Levels in 2024

• In 2024, CO₂ levels surpassed previous records, driven by:
• Increased fossil fuel emissions from industries and transportation.
• Wildfires, which released large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere.
• Deforestation, reducing the Earth's natural ability to absorb CO₂.

Global Impact of Rising CO₂

Rising CO₂ contributes to:
✔ Extreme weather (heatwaves, storms, droughts).
✔ Rising sea levels due to polar ice melt.
✔ Ocean acidification, harming marine life.

The Need for Urgent Action

To stabilize CO₂ levels, global efforts must focus on:
✔ Shifting to renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro).
✔ Reducing fossil fuel dependency and promoting energy efficiency.
✔ Expanding forest cover to enhance CO₂ absorption.

With continued monitoring via the Keeling Curve, scientists can track climate trends and advocate for stronger environmental policies. 

Extinction Filtering: The Silent Biodiversity Crisis

What is Extinction Filtering?
Extinction filtering is the gradual loss of species that are sensitive to human disturbances, leaving behind only those that can survive in degraded or altered environments.

Key Aspects of Extinction Filtering

 How It Works?

✔ Sensitive species disappear due to habitat destruction, pollution, or climate change.
✔ Resilient species dominate, leading to a more homogeneous ecosystem.
✔ Over time, biodiversity declines, and natural ecosystems become less stable.

Causes of Extinction Filtering

Deforestation & Habitat Loss – Conversion of forests into agriculture or urban spaces.
Pollution & Climate Change – Rising temperatures and pollutants affecting species survival.
Hunting & Poaching – Direct elimination of vulnerable species.
Fragmentation of Habitats – Breaking up of ecosystems into smaller, isolated patches.

Consequences of Extinction Filtering

Eosystem Weakening – Reduced resilience to environmental shocks.
Loss of Genetic Diversity – Making species more vulnerable to diseases.
Trophic Imbalance – Disrupting food chains and predator-prey relationships.
Decline in Ecosystem Services – Reduced carbon sequestration, pollination, and water purification.

Concern for Tropical Forests

Tropical forests are biodiversity hotspots, but extinction filtering is leading to:
Loss of rare and specialized species.
Dominance of generalist species, making ecosystems less diverse & functional.
Increased vulnerability to climate change & deforestation impacts.

Solutions & Conservation Strategies

Expanding Protected Areas – Strengthening conservation efforts beyond reserves.
Habitat Restoration – Reforesting degraded lands & creating wildlife corridors.
Regulating Human Activities – Sustainable land-use practices & stricter laws.
Biodiversity Monitoring – Identifying species at risk before extinction occurs.

Why This Matters?

If extinction filtering continues, future generations will inherit a less vibrant, less resilient planet, where ecosystems fail to sustain life as they once did. Urgent conservation actions are needed to reverse this silent biodiversity crisis.