In an area known for its volcanic activity, La Cumbre volcano on Fernandina Island began an eruptive process around 23:15pm GMT-5 on January 12, 2020 (according to an official announcement sent by the Galápagos National Park). The eruption was preceded by a 4.7 magnitude earthquake that occurred at the volcano.
La Cumbre is a 1475-meter-high volcano on the uninhabited Fernandina Island. It is a shield volcano, which means that when an eruption occurs it will be less dangerous compared to those in the mainland. La Cumbre had major eruption events in 2005, 2017 and 2018.
Geo Reisen began to monitor the situation and, as expected, we heard the news about La Cumbre ́s new eruptive phase on the east side of the island and indications of radial fissures and lava flows reaching the sea.
Fernandina Island is one of the youngest islands with a large land iguana population, Galápagos Penguins, Flightless Cormorants, lava lizards, rice rats, snakes, sea lions, marine Iguanas, and vegetation growing on young lava. There is only a single visitor point (Punta Espinosa) with short and long walks and great diving sites for observing sharks, rays, marine turtles, sea horses and many more.
We will continue to monitor this natural event and advise as appropriate.
THE GEO REISEN TEAM.
