Lake Nyos

Lake Nyos is a deep volcanic crater lake in Cameroon’s Northwest Region, impounded by a volcanic dam. Magma beneath the lake leaks carbon dioxide into its water, making it one of three known carbon dioxide-saturated lakes. In 1986, it released a large carbon dioxide cloud that suffocated people and livestock in nearby settlements. Degassing tubes were installed to reduce the risk of another eruption, but its weakening natural wall remains a concern.

Location

Northwest Region, Cameroon

Lake type

Volcanic crater lake

1986 eruption

A carbon dioxide cloud suffocated 1,746 people and 3,500 livestock