London 14°C 17 km/h wind Updated 9:45 am
MNN Global · March 17, 2026 · 1 min read

Lava from Piton de la Fournaise reaches Indian Ocean after 19 years

What happened: Lava from the erupting Piton de la Fournaise volcano on Reunion Island has flowed into the Indian Ocean, marking the first time this has happened in 19 years.

Why it matters:

  • The lava reaching the ocean can impact local ecosystems and marine life.
  • Residents and tourists witness a rare natural event with potential safety considerations.

MNN Take: Volcanic lava entering the ocean is a significant geological event that can alter the landscape and affect nearby communities and wildlife.

Sources: BBC World