In August 1986, Lake Nyos, a volcanic lake situated in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, experienced a catastrophic release of carbon dioxide gas that claimed the lives of up to 1,800 people. The eruption was triggered by volcanic activity beneath the lake, causing the water to mix and release a large volume of gas previously trapped in the deep layers. This event occurred late at night, when many residents were sleeping, leading to a swift and tragic outcome as the dense cloud of CO2 rolled down the slopes surrounding the lake. The gas engulfed nearby villages, causing asphyxiation to anyone in its path.The situation was worsened by the geographical characteristics of the region. The lake’s unique stratification meant that carbon dioxide could accumulate over time without being released. When the magma intrusion triggered the upheaval, it instantaneously disperse the gas into the atmosphere. The incident demonstrated how volcanic lakes can pose significant risks to nearby populations, especially when left unmonitored. Following the disaster, authorities took steps to improve monitoring of volcanic activity and the potential hazards reservoirs could present.In the aftermath of the tragedy, scientists from around the world studied the incident to understand the processes involved better. They devised methods to prevent similar occurrences at Lake Nyos and other locations with similar geological characteristics. The event emphasized the importance of environmental monitoring and the need for effective disaster preparedness plans.