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In 2021, a deadly volcano erupted with no warning. Here’s why

New data suggest a region in Congo came close to an even deadlier catastrophe

photo of Mount Nyiragongo erupting

Without the usual seismic warnings, Congo’s Mount Nyiragongo burst suddenly into life on May 22, 2021. The volcano spewed lava and smoke that threatened the nearby city of Goma.

Alex Miles/AFP/getty images plus

By Carolyn Gramling

- More than 2 years ago

In May 2021, Congo’s Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most dangerous volcanoes, burst to life without warning.