Puracé Volcano Reactivates in the Midst of a Seismic Emergency
Published on August 10, 2026
On Monday, the Puracé volcano, located in the Cauca department of southwestern Colombia, began emitting significant columns of gas and ash. This activity coincided with the devastating magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the country, but experts say the two phenomena are independent. The Colombian Geological Service (SGC) reported that ash and gas columns reached up to 300 meters above the crater rim.
In addition to the visible emissions, the SGC detected an increase in seismic energy, a rise in the temperature of the expelled gases, and higher concentrations of sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide. These changes prompted the authorities to maintain an orange alert level, which has been in effect since late last month. The alert signifies that volcanic activity is above normal and that eruptions could occur within days or weeks, requiring constant monitoring.
Two Separate Natural Events
Despite the temporal coincidence, the SGC and the commander of the Popayán Fire Department, Francisco Arboleda, have explicitly stated that the earthquake and the volcanic reactivation are geologically unrelated. The quake originated in the Chocó region, hundreds of kilometers away, and did not trigger the volcanic activity, which has been gradually building since 2021.
The Puracé volcano sits about 27 kilometers from the city of Popayán, the capital of Cauca. It is part of the Los Coconucos volcanic chain, which consists of 15 volcanic cones. Its last major eruption occurred in March 1977, and since then it has remained under observation. The current orange alert means that an eruption is more probable than not, but not guaranteed.
Impact on Air Travel
The Civil Aeronautics Authority (Aerocivil) ordered the temporary closure of the Guillermo León Valencia Airport in Popayán to avoid potential damage from volcanic ash, which can impair engine performance and visibility.
This closure adds to the seven other airports already shut down due to structural damage caused by the earthquake:
- Cali
- Pereira
- Manizales
- Quibdó
- Armenia
- Cartago
- Buenaventura
Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for alternative arrangements.
The Underlying Earthquake
The magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck with its epicenter in San José del Palmar, Chocó department, on the same day. As of now, authorities have confirmed at least 111 fatalities and 87 injuries, with 61 buildings collapsed. The Colombian government has declared a national disaster, and international aid has been offered. Rescue and relief operations are ongoing in affected areas.
For those unfamiliar with Colombian geography, Chocó is a Pacific coastal department known for its heavy rainfall and biodiversity, while Cauca is in the Andean region – the volcanic activity there is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.
What Does an Orange Alert Mean?
In volcanic risk scales, orange alert indicates that significant changes are observed in the volcano’s activity, and an eruption could occur within days or weeks. It is the second-highest level, below red (eruption imminent or in progress). Authorities advise the public to stay informed and follow evacuation protocols if necessary.
Volcanic ash can pose health risks, particularly to those with respiratory issues, and can contaminate water sources. The SGC is continuously monitoring the volcano and will issue updates as needed.