26 Jun 2023 | 03:26 PM UTC
Peru: Increased volcanic activity reported at Ubinas Volcano in Moquegua Region as of June 26
Increased volcanic activity reported at Ubinas Volcano in Moquegua Region, Peru, as of June 26. Ash emissions reported in surrounding area.
Event
Officials with the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP) have observed increased levels of volcanic activity at the Ubinas Volcano in the Moquegua Region, located approximately 70 km (43 miles) east of Arequipa. The IGP has confirmed that a new eruptive process began at the volcano as of June 22. The volcano has produced ash plumes up to 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) above the crater in recent days. Authorities have reported ashfall in the districts of San Juan de Tarucani and San Antonio de Chuca in the Arequipa Region as of early June 26.
Increased seismic activity has been reported at the volcano since mid-May, and the IGP raised the alert level to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-tier scale) on June 20. There are unconfirmed reports that the alert level has been raised to orange on June 26. People are warned to stay away from the volcano, and those in surrounding areas are advised to cover their noses and mouths with a mask and keep doors and windows closed if they are experiencing ashfall from the volcano.
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. The Ubinas Volcano could emit frequent gas and ash clouds over the coming days.
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 at Rodriguez Ballon International Airport (AQP) in Arequipa and other surrounding airports if significant ashfall accumulations occur.
Advice
Confirm flights if a large eruption occurs. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near the Ubinas 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.
