Volcanic ash emissions from Reventador volcano observed at 4 300 m (14 100 feet) a.s.l., Ecuador

Volcanic ash from Reventador in Ecuador was observed at 4 300 m (14 100 feet) above sea level at 19:30 UTC on December 17, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Washington VAAC at 19:51 UTC.

According to the VAAC advisory, ongoing volcanic ash emissions were detected by GOES-19 satellite imagery, with the ash cloud moving west of the summit. The ash cloud was reported at the surface up to flight level 140, which corresponds to approximately 4 300 m (14 100 feet) a.s.l. The ash was forecast to remain at this altitude for at least the next 18 hours. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

The Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for the most recent period does not include a new summary for Reventador, so no additional recent activity details are available from that source.

Reventador is an active stratovolcano located in the eastern Andes of Ecuador. It is known for frequent explosive eruptions that can produce significant ashfall and pyroclastic flows. The volcano poses risks to areas downwind including sparsely populated rural zones; major cities such as Quito are farther west but can experience ashfall under certain wind conditions. Additional hazards include lahars and lava flows, making monitoring essential for regional aviation and nearby communities.