Ash cloud from Sangay volcano observed at 7.9 km, Ecuador

An ash cloud from Sangay volcano, Ecuador, was observed at 7.9 km (26 000 feet) altitude at 01:50 UTC on September 21, 2026, according to the Washington Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC). Satellite imagery, ground-based observations, and a VONA report confirmed ash emissions drifting northwest to west-southwest from the summit.

The advisory reported ash drift at about 10 km/h (5 mph) toward the west. The VAAC forecast ash cloud movement at the same altitude through the next 18 hours based on numerical weather models and prior observations. The advisory noted low confidence in the forecast due to light and variable winds, and reported that observed ash movement did not align well with model output. No Aviation Color Code was stated in the advisory.