Estimated volcanic ash from Sabancaya volcano at 7 300 m (24 000 feet) a.s.l., Peru

Volcanic ash from Sabancaya in Peru was estimated at an altitude of 7 300 m (24 000 feet) above sea level at 05:50 UTC on March 26, 2026. The observation was based on earlier forecasts due to weather clouds preventing satellite and webcam confirmation. The advisory was issued by the Buenos Aires VAAC at 06:20 UTC on March 26, 2026.

The ash cloud was forecast at surface to FL240, which corresponds to approximately 7 300 m (24 000 feet) above sea level. The cloud was expected to move southwest at about 19 km/h (12 mph). No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory. Ash was not directly observable due to meteorological cloud cover, and the observation was an estimate made from previous forecast data.

According to the Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report, Sabancaya continues to show eruptive activity, with gas, steam, and ash plumes rising as high as 1 800 m (5 900 feet) above the summit during March 11–18, 2026. Explosions generated ash plumes observed up to 2 000 m (6 600 feet) above the summit, with an Alert Level of Orange in effect, and a recommendation for the public to remain outside a 12 km (7.5 miles) radius from the summit.

Sabancaya is an active stratovolcano located in southern Peru, part of the Central Volcanic Zone of the Andes. It is known for frequent eruptive activity producing ashfall, lava flows, and occasional pyroclastic flows. Nearby populations at risk include towns such as Colca Valley settlements and the city of Arequipa, located about 70 km (43 miles) away. Hazards from Sabancaya include ashfall, lahars, pyroclastic flows, and volcanic gas emissions.