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Volcanic Ash Shuts Down Flights in and Out of Britain

By Ian Brockwell  

A massive ash cloud from an erupting volcano in Iceland has shut down almost all flights in and out of Britain.

The eruption under the Eyjafjallajokull glacier in Iceland has continued for more than 3 weeks, but became more active in the last few days. A south-easterly wind has carried the ash cloud towards Britain and parts of Norway.

This is believed to be the first time, in the history of commercial flights in Britain, that flights have been affected by volcanic ash clouds and it is uncertain how long restrictions will remain.

Volcanic ash consists of small tephra, which are bits of pulverized rock and glass created by volcanic eruptions, less than 2 millimetres (0.079 in) in diameter. At the moment the ash cloud is reported to be at an altitude of around 20,000 feet and because of the destructive nature of the particles, which can stop engines running and seriously scratch windows on planes, most flights are forced to avoid coming into contact with these clouds.

As the ash cloud falls to the ground (in the next few days), some people, especially those who suffer from asthma, may experience breathing difficulties. Should it rain whilst the cloud is present, the ash will be visible in deposits.

With more serious eruptions (but not in this case), volcanic ash can be so heavy that a persons lungs can become sufficiently congested as to cause death, and the weight can cause roofs to collapse.

In an earlier article I mentioned that this current eruption in Iceland was relatively small, but there is a danger that a more powerful volcano could erupt later. You can read more about this in the article "Eruption of Katla Volcano Could Cause Flooding and Disrupt Flights"

A spokesman from National Air Traffic Services (NATS) said: "The Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre has issued a forecast that the ash cloud from the volcanic eruption in Iceland will track over Europe tonight."

How long flights will be affected depends on wind directions and the length of the eruption. However, should the Katla volcano also erupt, more serious disruptions can be expected.

Ian Brockwell writes straight talking, honest stories that engage readers. Contact Ian through NewsBlaze.