New 'Ghost Island' Emerges Off Azerbaijan's Coast Due to Mud Volcano Activity

A recently observed geological phenomenon known as a 'ghost island' has emerged off the coast of Azerbaijan, attributed to the submarine mud volcano Kumani Bank. This island formed approximately 15 miles from the eastern shore, first appearing in early 2023 before briefly growing to about 400 meters in width. By late 2024, the island had diminished to just one-quarter of its maximum size, according to satellite imagery released by NASA.

Mud volcanoes, while less explosive than traditional volcanoes, can create significant changes in landscape and are prevalent in regions near tectonic plate boundaries like Azerbaijan. The country is home to roughly 300 mud volcanoes, which collectively contribute to its title as the world capital of mud volcanoes.

Geologist Mark Tingay from the University of Adelaide commented on the surprise of suddenly seeing an island rise from the sea. These mud volcano eruptions occur when gas trapped beneath the Earth's surface builds up pressure before breaking through. While they're often quieter events, they can lead to dramatic changes in the environment, including the formation of temporary islands.

NASA has documented the developments of Kumani Bank over time, noting that previous eruptions have led to the creation of even larger islands in the past, with the largest recorded being 700 meters across.