Scientists declare La Palma volcano extinct

USPA NEWS - The Cumbre Vieja volcano, on the Spanish island of La Palma, could be considered extinct this Christmas day. After ten days of inactivity, the volcano, which expelled lava, ash and gases for three months, seems to have ceased its activity, with which it has caused the destruction of 1,562 buildings and 1,155 hectares of land.

The volcano began its eruptions on September 19. Almost three months later, on December 13, he stopped spitting fire, gas and ash. After eleven days of inactivity, scientists hope to confirm this Saturday, Christmas Day, the extinction of the volcano. But scientists warn that the danger has not disappeared. Air quality is good in all areas affected by the eruption and the emission of gases is no longer detected, but surveillance of the volcanic cone will continue for weeks, until it can be guaranteed that the volcano is extinguished.

For the inhabitants of the island of La Palma, this is a sad but hopeful Christmas. The island, like the entire archipelago of the Canaries, has volcanic origin. The palmists know that the risk is permanent, but those who have lost their houses, their belongings and their memories, feel the sadness of having to start from scratch. Houses, churches, a cemetery and many banana crops have been lost, as well as other businesses.

The solidarity of the Spanish has been evidenced. Bananas from La Palma are sought out in supermarkets throughout the country and the wine harvest from the volcano area is now selling better than ever. The Spanish Government has approved several direct aid to those affected by the volcano, the purpose of which is to facilitate the purchase of homes, the reopening of businesses and the rebirth of vital projects for those affected. Each family will receive 60,480 euros with which to face their new life. The aid of the Spanish Government is compatible with others that the regional government of the Canary Islands may approve.