LISBON, Oct 14 (NNN-AGENCIES) – A cloud of sulfur dioxide, from the eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano, on the Spanish island of La Palma, reached Portugal yesterday, the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) said, in a statement.
The intrusion of sulfur dioxide is “above 3,000 metres in altitude,” not yet effecting “the concentrations of this gas on the surface,” and should remain until tomorrow, IPMA said.
According to atmospheric monitoring from the European Union’s earth observation programme, Copernicus, there is also a significant amount of volcanic ash flowing eastwards, due to strong winds, although sulfur dioxide values are below the risk threshold.
According to IPMA, the maximum concentration of the gas should reach 46 micrograms per kg, at 6,000 metres altitude, to be toxic when inhaled. As a result, Portuguese specialists claim, they will continue following the evolution of the situation closely.
The Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted on Sept 19, compromising 656 hectares (6.56 square km) and displacing more than 6,000 people from the affected areas, where 20 earthquakes were registered in the last hours.– NNN-AGENCIES
