The volcano Eyjafjallajokull erupts in Iceland.
Iceland has around 130 volcanic mountains, 18 of which have erupted since it was first settled. Over the past 500 years, Iceland’s volcanoes have contributed a third of the total global lava output. Its most recent eruption is from the volcano Eyjafjallajokull, which began in March this year, and has yet to show signs of ceasing any time soon. Click the photo for pics at The Big Picture.
Tsingy de Bemaraha, the "stone forest" in Madagascar
Madagascar is known for its unique mix of plants and animals; of the 10,000 plants native to Madagascar, 90% are found nowhere else in the world. The Tsingy de Baharama is a strict nature reserve of limestone formations, mangrove forests, and endangered species spanning 257 sq mi (666 kilometers). Since its first settlement 2000 years ago, Madagascar has lost more than 90% of its original forest. Way to go, humans! Click photo for original gallery at National Geographic.
More later.
