Volcanic ash from Puracé volcano observed at 7 000 m (23 000 feet) a.s.l., Colombia

Volcanic ash from Puracé in Colombia was observed at 7 000 m (23 000 feet) above sea level at 08:50 UTC on December 18, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Washington VAAC at 09:27 UTC on December 18, 2025.

Ash emissions were reported by VONA, though volcanic ash emissions were not visible in GOES-19 satellite imagery due to meteorological cloud cover. The ash cloud was reported at surface to flight level 230, corresponding to approximately 7 000 m (23 000 feet) a.s.l., and was expected to shift direction from north-northwest to northwest and then north over the next 18 hours. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

According to the Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for late November through early December 2025, Puracé exhibited increased activity and gas-and-ash emissions, with several ash-and-gas plumes observed and minor ashfall in nearby areas. The Alert Level was raised to Orange and local authorities considered evacuation of residents in high-threat sectors.

Puracé is an andesitic stratovolcano located in southern Colombia. Its hazards include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lahars, with nearby communities such as Puracé and the city of Popayán (28 km, or 17 miles, northwest of the volcano) potentially at risk during significant eruptive events.