Large ash emissions from Popocatépetl volcano observed at 7 000 m (23 000 feet) a.s.l., Mexico

Volcanic ash from Popocatépetl in Mexico was observed at 7 000 m (23 000 feet) above sea level at 15:01 UTC on December 21, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Washington VAAC at 15:28 UTC on December 21, 2025.

The ash cloud was observed at surface to flight level 230, corresponding to approximately 7 000 m (23 000 feet) a.s.l., according to GOES-19 satellite and webcam imagery. The ash was moving north-northeast and was located about 65 km (40 miles) from the summit at the time of the advisory. Forecasts indicated continued movement to the northeast for at least 18 hours. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

Popocatépetl volcano is not specifically covered in the current Smithsonian/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report, so no additional recent activity details are available from the GVP for this week.

Popocatépetl is a stratovolcano located approximately 70 km (43 miles) southeast of Mexico City. It is one of Mexico’s most active volcanoes and poses hazards such as ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lahars. Several large population centers, including Mexico City, Puebla, and smaller nearby towns, are within 100 km (62 miles) and thus at potential risk from major eruptive activity.