Piton de la Fournaise: Major Eruption of One of the World's Most Active Volcanoes

The Piton de la Fournaise volcano, located on the French overseas island of La Réunion in the Indian Ocean, erupted for the second time this year on February 13. Known as one of the most active volcanoes globally, the eruption featured significant smoke and lava flows in the island's southeast region. Such eruptions are frequent for this shield volcano, which is a major geological feature of the Réunion hotspot. The event underscores the active tectonic and volcanic nature of the Indian Ocean basin.

Key Points

  • Piton de la Fournaise is a shield volcano and one of the most active in the world.
  • It is located on La Réunion, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean.
  • The volcano is associated with the Réunion hotspot, which also played a role in the formation of the Deccan Traps in India.

Exam Facts

  • Location: La Réunion Island (French territory), Indian Ocean.
  • Eruption Date: February 13, 2026.

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All current affairs of 16 February 2026