Lake Monoun

Nestled in the verdant highlands of Cameroon lies the serene Lake Monoun, an idyllic and somewhat mysterious body of water that has garnered international attention due to its lethal nature. This crater lake, situated in the Oku Volcanic Field, is known for a rare and deadly phenomenon known as a limnic eruption, or "lake overturn," which occurred in 1984, claiming the lives of 37 people.

Lake Monoun, with its seemingly placid waters, is a deceptively tranquil spot. The picturesque surroundings belie the lake's potential for danger, rooted in its volcanic origins. It is one of only three lakes in the world known to have experienced a limnic eruption — the others being nearby Lake Nyos and Lake Kivu in Rwanda.

The tragedy at Lake Monoun was caused by a sudden release of carbon dioxide from the depths of the lake, a result of volcanic activity below. This catastrophic outgassing suffocated wildlife and people in nearby villages, leading to increased scientific scrutiny and research into preventing such disasters in the future.

Despite its dark history, Lake Monoun has become an intriguing destination for those interested in geology and natural phenomena. Visitors to the area can explore the lake's surroundings, which offer a blend of peaceful scenery and the thrill of proximity to one of nature's rare and powerful events.