08 Feb 2022 | 05:14 PM UTC
Ecuador: Increased volcanic activity at Sangay Volcano in Morona Santiago Province Feb. 8
Increased volcanic activity at Sangay Volcano, Ecuador, Feb. 8. Reports of ashfall in Chimborazo and Bolivar provinces.
Event
Officials with Ecuador's Geophysical Institute (IG) have observed increased levels of volcanic activity at the Sangay Volcano, located approximately 52 km (32 miles) southeast of Riobamba, as of Feb. 8. A large volcanic ash eruption occurred at the volcano early Feb. 8, sending an ash plume 8,500 meters (28,000 feet) high. Volcanic material was sent in a northwesterly direction from the crater, resulting in ashfall in parts of Bolivar and Chimborazo provinces. The affected area includes parts of the town of Riobamba in Chimborazo Province and the outskirts of the city of Guaranda in Bolivar Province. The ashfall could reach parts of Los Rios, Guayas, and Manabi provinces in the coming hours.
Despite the increased volcanic activity, authorities have not issued any mandatory evacuations for the surrounding area. Additional eruptions could cause low-level seismic activity, ash clouds, and landslides in the surrounding area.
Health
Further volcanic activity may impact air quality in central Ecuador. Air quality could become a concern, particularly in areas near the crater following an explosive event. Individuals in the region - especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or lung cancers - may experience difficulty breathing and could suffer from lower tolerance to physical exertion.
Transport
Plan for possible transport disruptions in the surrounding area, especially if a significant eruptive event occurs. Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of significant ashfall, and visibility could be reduced. Officials might close roads near the volcano depending on the presence of hazardous volcanic material. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace. Authorities might temporarily close airport facilities if significant ashfall accumulations occur.
Advice
Confirm flights. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near the Sangay Volcano in the coming days. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry masks or face coverings and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.
