About Dallol
Dallol is a explosion crater(s) rising to -48 meters (-157 feet) in Ethiopia's Eastern Africa Volcanic Regions. It has been active in recent decades, with its last eruption in 2011 CE. The volcano has produced 2 recorded eruptions, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 1.
Geography & Climate
Dallol is located in Ethiopia, within the Afar Rift Volcanic Province of the broader Eastern Africa Volcanic Regions. Situated at 14.24° N, 40.30° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a tropical climate zone. With an elevation of -48 meters — below sea level — Dallol is a submarine or submerged volcanic feature. Submarine volcanoes make up the majority of Earth's volcanic activity, though most eruptions go unobserved beneath the ocean surface. The volcanic landform is characterized as a minor (basaltic), which describes the physical shape and structure of the volcanic edifice as observed from the surface.
Geological Context
Dallol is situated along a rift zone, where tectonic plates are pulling apart. As the crust thins and fractures, magma rises to fill the gap, creating volcanic activity. Rift volcanism typically produces more fluid lava flows rather than explosive blasts, which means communities near Dallol in Ethiopia generally face slower-moving hazards like lava flows and ground fissures rather than sudden pyroclastic events. However, rift volcanoes can still generate significant ash emissions and gas releases that affect local air quality. The dominant rock type is no data (checked), which influences the viscosity of the magma and, consequently, the style of eruptions this volcano produces. Rock chemistry is one of the most important factors in determining whether a volcano erupts explosively or effusively.
Eruption History Summary
Dallol has 2 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 1926 CE to 2011 CE. The most powerful recorded event was a gentle, effusive event in 1926 CE, reaching VEI 1 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. These eruptions span roughly 85 years of volcanic history. With eruptive activity as recently as 2011 CE, Dallol remains an actively monitored volcano.
GVP Reference Summary
Numerous phreatic explosion craters are present across the Salt Plain NNE of the Erta Ale Range in one of the lowest areas of the desolate Danakil depression. The most recent of these craters, Dallol, lies 48 m below sea level and was formed during an eruption in 1926. Colorful hot brine springs are found in the Dallol area. Another phreatic explosion was observed in January 2011.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
2 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 0 | Confirmed Eruption | Dallol crater |
| 1926 | 1 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Dallol
Is Dallol an active volcano?+
Yes, Dallol is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 2011 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did Dallol last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Dallol occurred in 2011 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 0. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Dallol has 2 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Dallol?+
Dallol has a summit elevation of -48 meters (-157 feet) above sea level. With an elevation of -48 meters (below sea level), this is a submarine or submerged volcanic feature.
What type of volcano is Dallol?+
Dallol is classified as a Explosion crater(s). Explosion crater(s) volcanoes have distinct geological characteristics that set them apart from other volcanic types.
Where is Dallol located?+
Dallol is located in Ethiopia, in the Eastern Africa Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Afar Rift Volcanic Province. Its exact coordinates are 14.242° latitude, 40.300° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Dallol?+
Visiting Dallol requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 2011 CE, conditions can change rapidly. Always consult local geological authorities and follow official warnings before visiting. Many active volcanoes have designated safe viewing areas and guided tour options.
