Tongan Volcano Eruption Destroyed Methane In The Atmosphere

The massive underwater eruption of Hunga Tonga caused a surprising change in the atmosphere by removing 900 metric tons of methane every single day.

What Happened

Recent scientific studies show that the huge volcanic blast sent the ocean floor crashing down by 700 meters in just a few minutes. This record-breaking event triggered rapid chemical reactions high up in the air.

Atmospheric Effects

Hydroxyl radicals formed quickly after the blast and broke down large amounts of atmospheric methane. Researchers point out that this sudden drop in methane helped balance out some of the warming effects caused by the massive amounts of water vapor the volcano also pumped into the air.