Find Out: Will Mount Kilimanjaro Erupt Again?

Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, is a unique peak in the African continent. Trekkers from around the world visit Kilimanjaro for breathtaking views and exciting mountaineering experiences. While climbing to the top, you cut through 5 different climate zones.

Standing at an impressive 5,895 meters, Kilimanjaro is not part of any mountain range. Because of its geological features, it has been the subject of many scientific studies. One important area of concern is if Mount Kilimanjaro will erupt again.

In this guide, I’ll explain the history of Mount Kilimanjaro’s eruption, its current state, and potent risks.

Will Mount Kilimanjaro erupt again?

The last significant volcanic activity on Kilimanjaro is considered to have occurred 200,000 years ago. No eruptions have been heard in recent times. This means the chances of Mount Kilimanjaro erupting again are minimal. However, Kibo is considered dormant and may erupt in the future.

When you visit the inner Reusch Crater on the Kibo summit, a strong smell of sulfur still arises from the fumaroles. In the Ash Pit (at the center of Reusch Crater) there are openings where volcanic gases and vapors are emitted. These are clear signs of a potential volcanic eruption.

As a climber, the current volcanic status of Kilimanjaro should not be a concern. Geologists are closely monitoring the mountain and any increase in volcano activity will be communicated promptly. Severe altitude sickness, injury, or infections are the only dangers linked to reported Mount Kilimanjaro deaths.

Mount Kilimanjaro eruption history

Mount Kilimanjaro was formed as a result of a volcanic eruption. Activities began nearly 2.5 million years ago when molten lava was forced upwards through the Earth’s crust as a result of continental drifting in the East African Rift Valley. This is where some of the Earth’s tectonic plates meet.

As a stratovolcano, Mount Kilimanjaro is made up of three major volcanoes namely Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo. Shira is the oldest of the three volcanic cones. Since its formation, Shira was volcanically active for about 250,000 years before it collapsed into a huge caldera.

Shortly after Shira became extinct, another volcanic eruption resulted in the formation of Mawenzi which also became inactive. Kibo is the youngest cone that formed approximately 500,000 years ago. It is volcanically dormant, meaning it could erupt again.

The formation of the Kibo crater

Kibo crater is a prominent feature on the summit of Kilimanjaro’s highest volcanic cone. This depression measuring about 2.5km wide encompasses several distinct features. Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro, is located on Kibo’s crater rim. 

Uhuru Peak stands at an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. All the climbing routes to Mount Kilimanjaro lead to the summit of Kibo. Every climber who treks Kilimanjaro aims to reach this highest point of the African continent. 

The Kibo Crater offers an awe-inspiring sight for trekkers. From the Uhuru Peak, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including valleys, glaciers, and other volcanic formations. The crater itself is deserted due to harsh conditions at the altitude.

Kibo has a large ice cap on its summit. The glaciers on Kibo include the Furtwängler Glacier and the Southern Icefield. However, over the years, there has been a notable reduction in the size of the glaciers due to climate change. They could disappear as soon as 2035.

The outer ring of the Kibo crater is not a perfect formation. The long-ago collapse of the western rim led to gaps in the summit. This has also made it possible to access the summit through the most dramatic Western Breach route. It is the fastest route to the mountain but very risky due to its steep and rocky slopes.

Dangers of a volcanic eruption

Volcanos pose serious dangers that can destroy and disrupt lives. Volcanic activities are accompanied by earthquakes which can cause mass destruction to properties including homes, infrastructure, and vegetation. The most iconic danger is the flow of lava. Nothing stands in the path of these hot molten rocks.

Volcanos release gases such as sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen fluoride during eruptions. These gases can be harmful to humans, animals, and the environment. They can cause respiratory issues, acid rain, and damage to vegetation.

Communities living near active volcanos must remain on high alert. Emergency preparedness must also be put in place in readiness for any eventuality. 

References

Downie C, Wilkinson P, 1972. The Geology of Kilimanjaro. England: Univ Sheffield Dept Geol, 253 p.

Wilkinson P, Mitchell J G, Cattermole P J, Downie C, 1986. Volcanic chronology of the Meru-Kilimanjaro region, northern Tanzania. J Geol Soc London, 143: 601-605.

IAVCEI, 1973-80. Post-Miocene Volcanoes of the World. IAVCEI Data Sheets, Rome: Internatl Assoc Volc Chemistry Earth’s Interior.

Richard J J, 1944. Volcanological observations in East Africa. II. Kilimanjaro: Kibo’s Fumarolic Activity in 1942-43. Journal of The East Africa Natural History Society, v. 18, p. 1-12..