07 Sep 2023 | 03:56 PM UTC
Peru: Increased volcanic activity continues at Ubinas Volcano in Moquegua Region as of Sept. 5
Increased volcanic activity continues at Ubinas Volcano in Moquegua Region, Peru, as of Sept. 5. Ashfall dispersed to surrounding areas.
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 Sept. 5. Eruptive activity has been ongoing at the volcano in recent months and explosive eruptions have dispersed ashfall to surrounding areas in Moquegua and Arequipa regions. There have been no reports of explosive eruptions since Aug. 28; however, dozens of seismic tremors and rockfalls, as well as gas and ash emissions, have been observed in recent days.
Authorities have extended a state of emergency for seven districts in General Sanchez Cerro Province in the Moquegua Region that was originally declared on July 5 for a further 60 days. 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 began at the volcano on June 22, and volcanologists confirmed a more explosive eruptive phase began on July 4.
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 Sept. 5. 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.
