Ash cloud from Sabancaya volcano observed at 7 300 m (24 000 feet) a.s.l., Peru

Volcanic ash from Sabancaya in Peru was observed at 7 300 m (24 000 feet) above sea level at 23:50 UTC on March 25, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Buenos Aires VAAC at 00:20 UTC on March 26, 2026.

The volcanic ash cloud altitude was estimated at 7 300 m (24 000 feet) above sea level, from surface to FL240. The observation was based on previous forecast data, as satellite and webcam imagery were obscured by weather clouds at the time. The ash cloud was moving west at approximately 19 km/h (12 mph). No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

According to the Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report, eruptive activity at Sabancaya continued during 11-18 March 2026. Gas, steam, and ash plumes rose as high as 1 800 m (5 900 feet) above the summit and drifted south-west, west, and north-west. An explosion on March 18 generated an ash plume that rose 2 000 m (6 600 feet) above the summit. The Alert Level remained at Orange, and the public was warned to stay at least 12 km (7.5 miles) from the summit.

Sabancaya is a stratovolcano located in southern Peru. Known hazards include ashfall, lava flows, and pyroclastic flows. The region surrounding Sabancaya includes smaller towns and rural communities, with the city of Arequipa located about 70 km (43 miles) to the south-west, representing the nearest major population center at potential risk from large eruptive events.