A DEADLY volcano that spits bright blue lava contains the world’s largest acid lake – capable of melting human skin.
Kawah Ijen, is a gargantuan volcano on the island of Java, Indonesia, with its lake water pH similar to that of battery acid.
When the gases ignite above the Kawah Ijen volcano, the unbelievable blue flames erupt. The flames can be up to 16-foot high when some of the gas condenses to liquid while still ignited. It is the largest blue flame area in the world and local people refer to it as Blue Fire.
The Ijen volcano complex is a group of composite volcanoes in the stunning Banyuwangi Regency of East Java, Indonesia. It is inside a larger caldera Ijen, which is around a whopping 12 miles wide. It has become a hugely popular tourist attraction due to its incredible blue flames it spits – but has led to numerous deaths.
One tourist tragically died at the site in April. The 31-year-old Chinese woman was trying to get the best angle to capture the breathtaking scenery – but tragically plunged 75 metres to her death. She and her husband had gone to see the stunning views and experience the famous Blue Fire phenomenon – but the excursion ended in horror.
Similar tragedies have occurred at the site over the years – many of which have been along the climbing route. The steep slopes of the Ijen volcano crater are covered in yellow solidified sulphur, making it a treacherous terrain for tourists and miners alike.
Miners carry rock-filled baskets by hand down the mountains which sell for around 680 Indonesia rupiahs per kilogram – the equivalent of about three pence. This is then used in the food and chemical industries involved in sugar refinery. The companies use them to remove colour impurities from the sugar.
Kawah Ijen is a popular tourist spot, attracting visitors from all over the world. Aerial views of the Misty Volcano of Kawah Ijen crater offer breathtaking scenery. Hot sulphuric gases emerging from the surface of the crater burn an electric blue upon contact with the cold air.
BLUE FIRE
The Blue Fire phenomenon occurs when hot sulphuric gases emerging from the surface of the crater burn an electric blue upon contact with the cold air. The gases are incredibly hot, with temperatures reaching up to 1,300°F (700°C), and contain high concentrations of sulfur dioxide.
Despite the dangers, Kawah Ijen remains a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take guided tours to the crater and witness the breathtaking Blue Fire phenomenon. However, it is essential to exercise extreme caution when visiting the site, as the terrain is treacherous and the gases emitted by the volcano can be harmful to human health.
FAQS
What is Kawah Ijen? Kawah Ijen is a deadly volcano that spits bright blue lava and contains the world’s largest acid lake.
Where is Kawah Ijen located? Kawah Ijen is located in the Banyuwangi Regency of East Java, Indonesia.
What is the Blue Fire phenomenon? The Blue Fire phenomenon occurs when hot sulphuric gases emerging from the surface of the crater burn an electric blue upon contact with the cold air.
Is Kawah Ijen a safe tourist destination? While Kawah Ijen is a popular tourist destination, it is essential to exercise extreme caution when visiting the site due to the treacherous terrain and harmful gases emitted by the volcano.
What is the pH level of the lake in Kawah Ijen? The pH level of the lake in Kawah Ijen is similar to that of battery acid.
About The Author
