Ethiopia Volcano Eruption: 9 Things You Should Do Immediately in Delhi to Protect Yourself

A powerful eruption of Hayli Gubbi, a long-dormant shield volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region, on November 23, 2025, has triggered a plume of ash, sulfur dioxide, and fine particles, as a result of erupted after close to 12,000 years, and the ash is now drifting toward northern India, including Delhi.According to meteorological monitoring, the ash cloud is moving at 100-120 km/h and is expected to blanket parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, and Delhi by around 10 PM, before it continues toward the Himalayan region. The cloud is very high, estimated between 15,000 and 45,000 feet, which may limit its direct health impact at ground level. Still, experts warn that some fine ash particles may descend, and the sky could become hazy or darker

than usual.

Here are 9 immediate steps Delhi residents should take to stay safe:

• Stay indoors: As the ash cloud arrives, remain inside your home if possible. Keep doors and windows closed to minimize ash entry.
• Seal your home: Block drafts under doors or around windows using damp towels or tape, this helps prevent ash from being drawn in.
• Avoid bringing in outdoor air: Turn off air-conditioning units or systems that draw in outside air; similarly, avoid using fans that suck in external air.
• Use a proper mask: If you need to step outside or handle ash, wear a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator to filter out ash particles.
• Protect your eyes and skin: Wear protective glasses or goggles to shield your eyes, and cover exposed skin with long sleeves and pants. Ash particles can irritate.
• Avoid non-essential travel: Ash in the air can reduce visibility and pose dangers while driving. If you must travel, go slowly with windows rolled up.
• Watch for aviation alerts: Aviation regulators like India’s DGCA have already issued warnings, the ash could damage aircraft engines.
• Avoid planning flights or travel during this alert period.
• Stay informed: Keep up with local weather and air-quality updates. Follow reliable sources for real-time ash-cloud tracking and any official health warnings.
• Clean up safely (later)
• When the ash settles and it’s safe to do so, dampen it lightly before sweeping or wiping to avoid stirring up particles. Wash any ash off skin or eyes gently with water.

While the ash cloud is high up and its impact on air quality at ground level may be limited, safety risks remain, especially for respiratory health and visibility during travel. Moreover, aviation operations are being disrupted — the DGCA has asked airlines to avoid affected altitudes and inspect runways for ash.Staying indoors, protecting your breathing, and keeping informed are your best defenses. Take these steps now, especially if the ash cloud is expected to reach Delhi around 10 PM.