03 Jul 2023 | 10:43 AM UTC
Peru: Increased volcanic activity continues at Ubinas Volcano in Moquegua Region as of July 3 /update 1
Increased volcanic activity continues at Ubinas Volcano in Moquegua Region, Peru, as of July 3. Authorities raise volcano alert level.
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 3. The volcano has produced ash plumes up to 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) above the crater in recent days. The IGP has reported ashfall predominantly being dispersed in a southerly and southeasterly direction and reaching up to 10 km (6 miles) from the crater. Affected settlements include Querapi, Ubinas, Sacohaya, Anascapa, Tonohaya, and Escacha.
Authorities increased the volcanic alert level at Ubinas 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. 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.
Increased seismic activity has been reported at the volcano since mid-May, and the IGP raised the alert level to yellow on June 20. The IGP confirmed that a new eruptive process has begun at the volcano June 22. Volcanologists have predicted that two scenarios are possible over the coming days and weeks; either the volcano will continue at its current level with sporadic ash emissions or it will enter a more explosive eruptive phase.
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.
