The atmospheric dispersion of SO2 from Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira volcanoes.

Abstract

Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira volcanoes of the East African Rift are among the most active sulfur dioxide (SO2) emitters on Earth. Considering the environmental and health impacts of volcanic SO2, understanding its dispersion is essential. In this study we used FALL3D dispersal model to simulate SO2 emissions from Nyiragongo 2021 eruption by inserting satellite data in the model to improve its accuracy. We found that SO2 dispersion was majorly influenced by the regional wind patterns with the plume spreading mainly towards the western part of the volcano, in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) but also in Western and Northern Rwanda and traveling as far as Tanzania. The study also establishes the effects of SO2 emissions on air quality, public health, and environmental pollution, including acid rain and fluoride contamination of rainwater. The comparison of model simulations with satellite observations demonstrated the importance of using satellite data in improving model dispersion forecasts. The results can be used in volcanic hazard planning, emphasizing the need for enhanced monitoring and early warning systems in the region.