The Nyiragongo volcanic mountain in the Democratic Republic of Congo has erupted once again, displacing thousands and damaging property.
Lava from Nyiragongo flowing into the town. PHOTO/COURTESY
The mountain is located in Virunga National Park, about 20km from Goma town and Lake Kivu and close to the DRC and Rwanda border to the West.
The Nyiragongo volcanic mountain. PHOTO/COURTESY
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The Rwandan authorities have confirmed that people estimated to be 3,000 have already fled from Goma and crossed into Rwanda where accommodation will be offered in learning institutions and places of worship.
Goma residents fleeing. PHOTO/COURTESY
The other residents from the volcanic region have fled to the Western side of the city on higher grounds.
It has been reported that the lava from the volcano has already reached the Goma Airport and the town of Beni already engulfed by the flowing lava.
Mount Nyiragongo is one of the world’s active stratovolcanoes and concerns have grown in the recent past about its activity and proper observation.
The World Bank that used to fund the Goma Volcano Observatory ceased its funding over corruption allegations.
The volcano has had incidences of eruption in the past with the deadliest one happening in 1977 when close to 600 people lost their lives and thousands were displaced.
Goma residents fleeing from the volcano. PHOTO/COURTESY
The most recent incident occurred in 2002, killing over 200 people and displacing 120,000.