17 Oct 2022 | 12:18 AM UTC
Ecuador: Increased volcanic activity reported at Sangay Volcano, Morona Santiago Province, Oct. 16
Increased volcanic activity sighted at Sangay Volcano, Morona Santiago Province, Ecuador, Oct. 16. Ashfall likely to southwest of volcano.
Event
Officials from Ecuador's Geophysical Institute (IG) have observed increased levels of volcanic activity at the Sangay Volcano, located approximately 52 km (32 miles) southeast of Riobamba in Morona Santiago Province, as of Oct. 16. Authorities have sighted a large volcanic ash cloud reaching 1,800 meters (5,906 feet) above the volcano's crater. Officials have stated that associated ashfall will likely impact areas southwest of the volcano, including parts of Morona Santiago, Canar, and Azuay provinces, over the short term; no ashfall was immediately reported in connection with the elevated volcanic activity.
While authorities did not immediately issue any mandatory evacuations for areas near the volcano, evacuation orders cannot be ruled out over the coming days. Additional eruptions could cause low-level seismic activity, ash clouds, and landslides in the surrounding area.
Health
Further volcanic activity may impact air quality in parts of Ecuador, particularly in areas near the crater following an explosive event. Individuals in affected regions - especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or lung cancers - may experience difficulty breathing and could suffer from lower tolerance to physical exertion.
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 if significant ashfall accumulations occur.
Advice
Confirm flights. Plan for possible transport disruptions over the coming days if operating near the Sangay Volcano. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; drive cautiously in areas affected by ashfall due to the possibility of reduced visibility. Carry masks or face coverings and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in an affected area.
