Volcanic ash from Sangay volcano observed at 6 700 m (22 000 feet) a.s.l., Ecuador

Volcanic ash from Sangay volcano in Ecuador was observed at 6 700 m (22 000 feet) above sea level at 10:30 UTC on October 31, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Washington VAAC at 11:05 UTC on October 31, 2025.

According to the advisory, satellite imagery from GOES-19 detected evidence of volcanic ash emissions between weather clouds, with the ash cloud extending towards the north-northwest. The observed ash cloud reached up to flight level 220, corresponding to approximately 6 700 m (22 000 feet). Forecasts suggest the ash will continue moving generally north-northwest through at least the next 18 hours. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

The Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report does not include any entry for Sangay volcano for the latest week, so no additional recent activity details are available from the Global Volcanism Program at this time.

Sangay is a large stratovolcano located in central Ecuador and is one of the most active volcanoes in the country. Known hazards at Sangay include frequent ashfall, pyroclastic flows, lava flows, and occasional lahars that can affect areas downriver. The volcano is situated in a remote region, but ashfall can sometimes impact populated areas further away, including the city of Riobamba (approximately 50 km or 31 miles to the west).