Ert Ale

Erta Ale, also known as Ertale or Irta’ale, is a continuously active basaltic shield volcano located in the Afar Region of northeastern Ethiopia. It is part of the Danakil Depression, a barren desert region that is below sea level. Erta Ale is 613 meters (2,011 feet) high and is notable for having one or sometimes two active lava lakes at its summit, which occasionally overflow on the south side of the volcano. The volcano has been continuously active since at least 1906, making it one of the longest-existing lava lakes in the world. Erta Ale means “smoking mountain” in the local Afar language, reflecting its ongoing volcanic activity.

In recent years, Erta Ale has seen notable changes. Since January 2023, a new lava lake has formed in the northern crater, measuring approximately 300 meters in diameter and with a depth of about 15 meters. The southern pit crater also continues to be active, with a steep-sided hornito building itself from the crater floor.