Sporadic ash emissions at Sabancaya volcano reach 6 700 m (22 000 feet) a.s.l., Peru

Volcanic ash from Sabancaya in Peru was observed at 6 700 m (22 000 feet) above sea level at 08:40 UTC on April 5, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Buenos Aires VAAC at 09:15 UTC.

Satellite data (GOES-E, GFS, VOLCAT) detected light pulses of volcanic ash moving north at 6 700 m (22 000 feet), corresponding to flight level FL220. Webcams showed sporadic puff emissions. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

Recent reports from the Global Volcanism Program noted continuing eruptive activity at Sabancaya during March 18–25, 2026. The seismic network detected 8–16 daily earthquakes associated with magma and gas movement. Periodic explosions generated ash plumes up to 2 000 m (6 600 feet) above the summit, with gas and steam emissions rising 300–1 000 m (980–3 280 feet) above the summit. The Alert Level remained at Orange and the public was advised to stay outside a 12 km (7.5 miles) radius from the summit.

Sabancaya is an active stratovolcano in southern Peru. Its eruptions primarily produce ashfall and occasional pyroclastic flows. The nearby population, including the city of Arequipa, may be affected by ashfall depending on wind direction. Additional hazards include lahars and potential impacts to aviation from volcanic ash clouds.