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

Volcanic ash from Sangay in Ecuador was observed at up to 6 700 m (22 000 feet) above sea level at 07:50 UTC on November 1, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Washington VAAC at 08:23 UTC on the same day.

According to the VAAC advisory, the volcanic ash cloud was reported between the surface and flight level 220 (approximately 6 700 m or 22 000 feet above sea level). The detection was based on satellite (GOES-19), VONA reports, and numerical weather prediction models; however, volcanic ash emissions were not directly observed in satellite imagery due to meteorological cloud cover, and the presence of ash is inferred. The advisory notes low confidence in the forecast due to variable winds, with predicted movement north-northwest by 6 hours and west-northwest by 12 hours. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

The Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for the current week does not include a summary of Sangay’s activity. For the latest information about activity at the volcano, consult the Global Volcanism Program website or official Ecuadorian sources.

Sangay is a highly active stratovolcano located in central Ecuador. It is known for frequent explosive eruptions, ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava flows. The primary hazards include ashfall that can affect nearby settlements such as Macas (approximately 35 km [22 miles] east) and the broader Morona Santiago province, with aviation impacted by elevated ash plumes. Phreatic activity and lava flows can also pose risks to areas surrounding the volcano.