Volcanic ash from Nevado del Ruiz volcano observed at 7 010 m (23 000 feet) a.s.l., Colombia

Volcanic ash from Nevado del Ruiz in Colombia was observed at 7 010 m (23 000 feet) above sea level at 02:20 UTC on October 18, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Washington VAAC at 02:37 UTC on the same day.

According to the advisory, the volcanic ash cloud was reported in the vertical range from the surface up to flight level 230, which corresponds to approximately 7 010 m (23 000 feet) above sea level. Ash was not detected on satellite imagery due to weather clouds in the summit area, but a VONA (Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation) indicated ash emissions. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory. Model winds at this altitude were forecast to shift, becoming more from the east in the next 6 hours.

The Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report does not list recent activity for Nevado del Ruiz for the week ending September 30, 2025. No further details on current eruptive activity are available in the latest weekly summary.

Nevado del Ruiz is a large stratovolcano located in the Andes of central Colombia. It is known for its history of explosive eruptions and associated hazards, which include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lahars. The nearby city of Manizales, situated about 30 km (19 miles) to the northeast, is among several populated areas at risk from the volcano’s hazards, particularly from lahars triggered by melting ice and snow during eruptions.