Ecuador: Galapagos volcano eruption prompts evacuations June 26

Event

The Sierra Negra volcano, on the Galapagos island of Isabela, began erupting on Tuesday, June 26, prompting the evacuation of at least 50 inhabitants to Puerto Villamil, according to the Ecuadorian Geographic Institute. The Secretariat of Risk Management issued an orange alert and suspended school and tourist activities in areas surrounding the volcano.

Context

The Galapagos Islands are a highly active geological area; La Cumbre volcano, on nearby Fernandina Island, erupted ten days ago on June 17. However, the Sierra Negra volcano has not erupted in 13 years.

Isabela Island has a population of 1748 and is the largest island in the Galapagos. Sierra Negra volcano is located at the southeastern end of the island.

Advice

Individuals present in or planning travel to the Galapagos Islands are advised to avoid the above areas, confirm flight and other travel reservations, and closely monitor the situation. In the event of volcanic activity, travelers are advised to adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders) and wear respiratory masks and covering clothing to protect skin from ash fall in affected areas.