WESTERN PROVINCE

RUBAVU — Experts in DRC-Goma who survey the volcanic activities of Birunga Mountains have warned Gisenyi residents to prepare for an imminent eruption of the volcano.

According to the experts, all signs indicate a possible eruption of the mountain in the near future; whose last eruption a few years ago destroyed property and houses in Goma.

"Unlike in the past when the eruption affected only residents in Goma, we have through the help of our machines discovered an active underground tunnel which moves towards Gisenyi town thus a possibility of pouring lava towards Gisenyi town in case of any eruption," said Muhammad Busikwe, DRC expert.

Jean Paul Musana, a Red Cross official in Gisenyi said they were aware but said there was no cause for alarm since experts have installed a machine on the volcanoes capable of detecting an eruption three weeks in advance.

"We are working hand in hand with experts in Goma who survey the volcanic activities of Birunga Mountains and we get regular updates. Our main responsibility as the Red Cross is to always be prepared to help people in times of disaster. This is why residents have to start thinking of what to do in case of an eruption," Musana said.

He said the probability of its eruption was half, though, there was need to prepare residents.

Residents however, seem to be unbothered with the warning.

"I don’t think it is erupting soon. I have lived in Gisenyi for many years and we have always known whenever it is about to erupt. Normally, when you look at it at night, there is always burning like flames on its top which is visible from distant places." Jean Damascene Hakizumuremyi, a resident said.

"When the flames are there we are safe because that indicates it has some breathing space. The problem comes when the burning stops. The heat burns within forcing it to burst thus flashing magma all over," he added.

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