New Volcanic Island forms in Red Sea

A new island is forming in the Red Sea. About 60 kilometres (40 miles) from the coast of Yemen, an undersea eruption began in mid-December 2011.

This satellite image suggests that the eruption has risen nearly completely above water.

A plume of steam, other volcanic gases, and ash spews from a distinct cone. The land surrounding the vent has grown, and is now about 530 by 710 metres (1,700 by 2,300 feet) across.

In contrast to the fragmented rock that forms when lava interacts directly with water, lava that solidifies on land is tough, so this new island is likely to stick around.

Picture: NASA / AFP/Getty