Volcanic ash from Sangay volcano observed at 6 400 m (21 000 feet) a.s.l., Ecuador

Volcanic ash from Sangay volcano in Ecuador was observed at 6 400 m (21 000 feet) above sea level at 20:40 UTC on April 8, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Washington VAAC at 21:06 UTC on the same day.

The ash cloud was detected by GOES-19 satellite data, and the ongoing ash emissions were confirmed in VONA reports. The ash was observed at an altitude between the surface and FL210, which is equivalent to 6 400 m (21 000 feet) above sea level. The ash cloud was moving west-southwest of the summit, and a hotspot was identified on satellite imagery. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

The Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report does not contain an entry for Sangay volcano for the most recent period. For the latest information about activity at the volcano, consult official sources.

Sangay is a prominent stratovolcano located in the Andean range of central Ecuador. It is known for frequent explosive eruptions, volcanic ashfall, and generation of lava flows and pyroclastic flows. The region surrounding Sangay is sparsely populated, but communities along valleys to the west are at risk from ashfall and mudflows generated by heavy rainfall interacting with volcanic deposits.