Volcanic ash from Sangay volcano observed at 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 10:10 UTC on March 31, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Washington VAAC at 10:40 UTC.

According to the VAAC, ash was detected between the surface and FL220, which corresponds to 6 700 m (22 000 feet). The ash cloud was observed using GOES-19 satellite imagery, webcam, and numerical weather prediction models. The ash cloud was moving south-southeast from the summit, with movement expected to shift toward the southwest by forecast hour +12. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

The Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report does not have a current summary for Sangay for the specified period. Please refer to official sources for the latest activity details.

Sangay is a large stratovolcano located in the central Andes of Ecuador. Its typical hazards include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava flows. The volcano is situated in a remote area, but ashfall can occasionally affect populated regions to the west, including cities such as Riobamba, located about 50 km (31 miles) away.