Volcanic ash emissions at Sangay volcano reach 6 700 m (22 000 feet) a.s.l., Ecuador

Volcanic ash from Sangay volcano in Ecuador was observed at 6 700 m (22 000 feet) above sea level at 04:20 UTC on March 31, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Washington VAAC at 04:49 UTC.

The ash cloud was reported at altitudes up to 6 700 m (22 000 feet) above sea level, corresponding to flight level FL220. The observation was based on ground and webcam evidence, as satellite imagery was obscured by weather clouds in the summit area at the time. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory. Model guidance suggested winds at this altitude would become more northerly over the next 18 hours.

Sangay volcano was not specifically mentioned in the most recent Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering up to March 18, 2026. No summary of recent GVP activity is available for this period.

Sangay is an active stratovolcano located in central Ecuador. Its eruptions are characterized by frequent ash emissions, lava flows, and occasional pyroclastic flows. Ashfall can affect communities downwind, with larger hazards to aviation and regional agriculture. The nearest significant settlements are Alausí and Macas, both at risk from volcanic ash fallout depending on wind direction. All numerical units are presented in metric units first, followed by imperial equivalents in parentheses.