Natural Disaster Alert
December 12, 2019
Location: Sangay Volcano, Morona Santiago Province, Ecuador.
Event: According to the Servicio Nacional de Gestion de Riesgos y Emergencias, there is increased volcanic activity at Sangay volcano. The U.S. Embassy recommends that visitors do not hike up to the crater or approach the high areas of the volcano. The alert level has been raised to yellow for the Upano and Volcan rivers close to the volcano as the increased activity raises the possibility of flash floods. The airport in Cuenca was closed for a period December 11 due to volcanic ash interrupting flights; further closures are possible, and we recommend checking with airlines prior to flights. Ash from the volcano may cause respiratory problems for those in the area.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid the area near Sangay volcano.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- The Ecuadorian government recommends that you protect your eyes, nose, and skin from volcanic ash, including through the use of glasses, face masks, and regular bathing.
- Monitor further announcements from Gestion de Riesgos at https://www.gestionderiesgos.gob.ec/
Assistance
- U.S. Embassy Quito, Ecuador
+(593)(2) 398-5000
+(593)(2) 398-5000 (after hours)
ACSQuito@state.gov - U.S. Consulate General Guayaquil, Ecuador
+(593)(4) 371-7000
+(593)(4) 371-7000 (after hours)
ACSGuayaquil@state.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 - Ecuador Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program(STEP) to receive security updates
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