Mount Nyiragongo, DR Congo 2002

Question 1

When did the volcanic eruption occur?

Answer 1

January 17th 2002

Question 2

Key info:

Answer 2

-13km large fissure opened, allowing magma to rise. Lava flows travelling up to 40 mph towards the capital
-Is a stratovolcano at 3,470m on albertine rift
-Impacts = 250 lost their lives, 5000 buildings or 15% of town goma destroyed, 400,000 people forced to move across borders, poisonous gases caused acid rain affecting farmland and cattle - many farmers lost their income, 1 month after 350,000 still dependant on aid
-Response = Due to it being an LIC little advanced warning or emergency protocol in place and few educated on dangerous toxic gases, 10 aid agencies and NGOs helped out with the relief effort, funding authorities sent out to help clear debris, US provided an additional $7.5M funding aid