Puracé Volcano remains under orange alert due to increased seismic activity

The Puracé Volcano in Colombia remains under an orange alert following a significant increase in seismic activity and changes in its volcanic dynamics. The Colombian Geological Service (SGC) reported that monitoring parameters have reached levels that far exceed baseline behavior.

Recent data indicates hundreds of volcano-tectonic seismic events associated with rock fracturing, primarily located 10 to 15 kilometers northeast of the crater at depths of 8 to 12 kilometers. Several tremors, with magnitudes reaching up to 4.3, were felt by residents in Puracé, Totoró, Sotará, and the city of Popayán. Additionally, continuous tremor signals have been detected under the crater at depths of less than one kilometer, indicating the movement of volcanic fluids and gases.

Other observed phenomena include ash emissions, increased concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and carbon dioxide (CO2), and slow ground deformation between the Puracé, Piocollo, and Curiquinga volcanoes. Heavy rains in the high mountains have also triggered secondary mudflows in the Vinagre, Anambío, and San Francisco rivers. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) has urged the public and tourists to strictly avoid the area.