20 Dec 2022 | 03:47 PM UTC
Ecuador: Volcanic activity ongoing at Cotopaxi Volcano in Cotopaxi Province as of Dec. 20
Volcanic activity ongoing at Cotopaxi Volcano in Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador, as of Dec. 20. Ashfall reported in parts of Pichincha Province.
Event
Officials with Ecuador's Geophysical Institute (IG) have observed increased levels of volcanic activity at Cotopaxi Volcano, located approximately 52 km (32 miles) south-southeast of Quito, as of Dec. 20. An ash emission from the volcano in the early hours of Dec. 20 generated an ash plume 1,103 meters (3.619 feet) above the crater which has been dispersed by the wind in a north-northwest direction. Ashfall has been recorded in 15 parishes across the cantons of Mejia, Quito, and Ruminahui in Pichincha Province. Authorities are advising people in areas where ash is falling to take protective measures such as wearing a mask and protecting their eyes, as well as to follow official sources for updates on the situation.
The volcano has remained in a low-intensity eruptive state since Oct. 21. Authorities are maintaining a yellow alert level (the second lowest level on a five-tier scale) as a precaution due to the increased volcanic activity. Despite the ongoing 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 Cotopaxi 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.
