20 Jul 2023 | 02:40 PM UTC
Peru: Increased volcanic activity continues at Ubinas Volcano in Moquegua Region as of July 20 /update 3
Increased volcanic activity continues at Ubinas Volcano in Moquegua Region, Peru, as of July 20. Ashfall reported in parts of Arequipa.
Event
Officials with the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP) continue to observe increased levels of volcanic activity at the Ubinas Volcano in the Moquegua Region, located approximately 70 km (43 miles) east of Arequipa, as of July 20. Explosive eruptive activity is ongoing at the volcano, and the eruptions have produced ash plumes up to 7,300 meters (24,000 feet) above the crater in recent days. The IGP has predominantly reported ashfall being dispersed in an easterly, northeasterly, and southerly direction July 17-18; however, a change in wind direction led to ash being dispersed to the west from July 19, and ashfall has been reported in parts of the city of Arequipa early July 20. Other areas previously affected by ashfall include Ubinas, Chojata, Lloque, Matalque, and Yunga districts in Moquegua Region. Dozens of minor tremors have also been recorded in the area in recent days.
Authorities declared a 60-day state of emergency for seven districts in General Sanchez Cerro Province in Moquegua Region on July 5. The volcanic alert level at Ubinas was increased from yellow to orange (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) on July 2 due to the rise of magma, thermal anomalies, and ash emissions. Increased seismic activity has been reported at the volcano since mid-May, and the IGP previously raised the alert level to yellow on June 20. The IGP confirmed that a new eruptive process has begun at the volcano on June 22, and volcanologists confirmed a more explosive eruptive phase began on July 4. A brief hiatus in explosive activity occurred around July 9-15 before resuming July 16.
People are warned to stay away from areas within a 4 km (2.5 miles) radius of the crater. 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 as of July 20; authorities have reportedly begun preparing evacuation shelters in surrounding areas. Additional eruptions could cause low-level seismic activity and landslides in the vicinity of the volcano. The Ubinas Volcano will likely continue to 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.
