Tungurahua

Tungurahua is a stratovolcano in the central Ecuadorian Andes, rising to 5,023 meters. It lies in Tungurahua Province, near the town of Baños de Agua Santa, about 140 kilometers south of Quito. The volcano forms part of the Andean volcanic arc created by the subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate.

The volcano has been intermittently active since renewed activity began in 1999 after decades of dormancy. It produced frequent explosive eruptions, ash plumes, and the growth of lava domes. A major eruptive phase in 2006 produced tall ash plumes, pumice falls, and lava flows, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands from Baños and surrounding areas. Activity continued in subsequent years, with periodic explosions, ash emissions, and lahars, causing temporary closures of roads and airports and occasional damage to agriculture and infrastructure. The volcano remains under continuous monitoring by the Instituto Geofísico of the Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN), with scientists issuing regular updates and hazard assessments.

Hazards and impacts: Pyroclastic flows, ashfall, lava bombs, and lahars pose ongoing risks to nearby communities and agriculture. Ash clouds can disrupt air travel across the region. Evacuation plans and emergency infrastructure are maintained by local authorities.

Current status: Tungurahua is considered an active volcano with ongoing degassing and intermittent eruptive activity; monitoring, risk mitigation, and public advisories continue as authorities respond to evolving conditions.