QCOSTARICA — The eruptions that occurred Tuesday at the Poás Volcano prompted the implementation of safety protocols, restricting visitor access.
Communities near the volcano report a strong smell of sulfur and falling ash.
The measure seeks to protect the safety of tourists and officials while the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) and the relevant volcanological technical bodies continue to assess volcanic activity.
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Since late February and early March, the volcano has shown signs of instability, such as frequent eruptions, gas exhalations, and increased seismic activity.
Today, Wednesday, authorities point out that the eruptions at the colossus are small but constant.
According to the Comité Asesor Técnico (CAT) -Technical Advisory Committee, composed of Ovsicori and the Red Sismológica Nacional, there are factors that indicate increased volcanic risk in the area:
- Increasing tremor amplitude.
- Vertical deformation of the crust.
- Composition of gases linked to surface magma.
- Decreasing lake level and the hydrothermal system’s water table.
- Hydrothermal system inefficient at capturing volatiles and heat from magma.
- High concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO2) in the air.
On Tuesday, March 25, eruptive activity reached a new peak, with abundant gas output, small and medium-sized explosions, and the presence of ash, which has led to frequent reports of strong odors and ashfall in nearby communities.
Affected cantons
Given this situation, the Comisión Nacional de Emergencias (CNE) – National Emergencies Commission – has declared a green alert status in the cantons of:
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- Alajuela
- Poás
- Grecia
- Sarchí
- Naranjo
- Río Cuarto
- Zarcero
Additionally, the Poás Volcano National Park area is included as a risk zone due to its proximity to the crater and the volcano’s constant activity.
Preventive Measures
The CNE issued a series of recommendations for affected communities and local authorities:
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- Increase safety measures within the Poás Volcano National Park, as gases and ash can be dangerous for people with respiratory problems.
- Use only official sources of information such as the Ovsicori, the RSN, and the CNE to stay up-to-date on the situation.
- Monitor the highest-risk areas in the surrounding cantons and maintain ongoing communication with municipal and community emergency committees.
- Review inventories of available resources to assist affected people.
- Remind the general public to follow the recommendations of park rangers and relevant authorities.
The CNE emphasizes that, although the green alert implies a continuous assessment of the situation, it is essential that citizens remain vigilant and follow the instructions of the authorities to minimize risks in the face of possible increased activity from the volcano.
Park closed
The Poás Volcano National Park will remain temporarily closed while the situation is monitored. Affected tourists can reschedule their visit once the park is reopened.
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