Costa Rica: Increased volcanic activity reported at Rincon de la Vieja Volcano in Guanacaste Province as of early June 7

Event

The Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (OVSICORI) has observed increased levels of volcanic activity at Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, located approximately 25 km (16 miles) northeast of Liberia in Guanacaste Province, as of early June 7. A series of phreatic eruptions have been reported at the volcano in recent weeks, with 58 eruptions recorded during May and activity continuing into early June. Plumes containing water vapor and volcanic material rising over 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) above the crater have also been reported in recent days. The activity prompted OVSICORI to raise the volcanic alert level from yellow to orange (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) June 5. A further increase in activity could lead to explosive eruptions, ash or lava emissions, pyroclastic flows, and increased seismic activity.

The National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Attention of Costa Rica (CNE) has issued green alerts (the lowest level on a four-tier scale) for the districts of Mayorga, Canas Dulces, and Curubande in the canton of Liberia, as well as the districts of Dos Rios and Aguas Claras in the canton of Upala in neighboring Alajuela Province, due to the volcanic activity. The CNE has advised residents to be vigilant for additional eruptions and to abide by instructions and orders from the authorities. The CNE has also advised residents not to approach the crater and to stay away from basins where volcanic material can descend, such as the Azul, Penjamo, and Azufrada rivers. 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 northwestern Costa Rica and southeastern Nicaragua. 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
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 may temporarily close airport facilities at Guanacaste Airport (LIR) and other surrounding airports at short notice if significant ashfall accumulations occur.

Advice

Confirm flights if a large eruption occurs. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near the volcano over the coming days. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry facemasks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.

Resources

National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Attention of Costa Rica (CNE)
Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (OVSICORI)