Nevado del Ruiz Volcano, Colombia - increased activity

Nevado del Ruiz volcano in Colombia has been experiencing low-to-moderate thermal anomalies in Arenas Crater since October 2022. However, there has been a significant increase in seismic activity, with over 6,000 rock-fracturing earthquakes recorded on March 28 and over 11,000 recorded on March 29. The earthquake locations have also migrated towards Arenas Crater, with maximum magnitudes increasing each day and some being associated with ash emissions. As a result, the Alert Level has been raised to Orange, Level II, and residents in the surrounding areas should be prepared for possible evacuation. The last time Nevado del Ruiz was active, it caused a devastating eruption that killed 23,000 people in Colombia
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Servicio Geológico Colombiano’s (SGC) reported that thermal anomalies, persistent in Arenas Crater at Nevado del Ruiz since October 2022, were low-to-moderate in intensity. Seismicity increased significantly on 24 March, characterized by rock-fracturing earthquakes mainly located 2-5 km SW of Arenas crater at depths of 2-4 km. On 28 March there were 6,500 of these events, the highest daily count since 2010. The number of daily events continued to increase and on 29 March the seismic network recorded 11,000 earthquakes, the highest daily count since seismic monitoring began in 1985; on 30 March there were 11,600 earthquakes. The maximum magnitudes per day were also increasing, with a M 2.6 on 24 March, a M 2.7 on 29 March, and a M 3.1 on 30 March. The earthquake locations migrated towards Arenas Crater, though the depths remained within the same range. The Alert Level was raised to Orange, Level II (the second highest level on a four-level scale) on 30 March. In addition to the swarm, seismic signals indicating fluid movement continued to be recorded and some were associated with ash emissions; the tallest plume on 30 March rose 1.8 km above the summit and drifted NW and SW.

The Street reported, "The last time the Nevado del Ruiz volcano was active, it erupted and killed 23,000 people in Colombia, wiping out the town of Armero in the process."

Pay attention to volcanoes in the neighborhood and be prepared to evacuate.Eight days ago, about April 3.

As of April 9

 
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What is the current activity level of Nevado del Ruiz Volcano?

The current activity level of Nevado del Ruiz Volcano can vary, but it is monitored closely due to its history of significant eruptions and its potential impact on nearby populations. The volcano's activity is typically characterized by seismic activity, gas emissions, and sometimes ash emissions. For real-time updates, it is best to refer to the Colombian Geological Service (Servicio Geológico Colombiano) which provides the latest volcanic activity reports.

What type of volcano is Nevado del Ruiz?

Nevado del Ruiz is a stratovolcano, which is a type of composite volcano. It is composed of many layers of hardened lava, tephra, pumice, and volcanic ash. These volcanoes are known for their explosive eruptions and steep profiles, and Nevado del Ruiz has been active for about two million years, with its last major eruption occurring in 1985.

What were the impacts of the 1985 eruption?

The 1985 eruption of Nevado del Ruiz is infamous for triggering deadly lahars (volcanic mudflows) that buried the town of Armero, killing approximately 23,000 people. It remains one of the deadliest volcanic disasters in history. The lahars traveled down the river valleys on the sides of the volcano at high speeds, destroying everything in their path.

What measures are in place to monitor and warn of potential eruptions?

Since the 1985 tragedy, significant improvements have been made in monitoring and early warning systems for Nevado del Ruiz. The Colombian Geological Service continuously monitors the volcano using seismographs, GPS stations, and other sensors to track any signs of increased activity. They also work in collaboration with local authorities to plan and conduct evacuation drills and community education programs to ensure better preparedness for future eruptions.

What should locals and tourists do to stay safe?

Locals and tourists should stay informed about the status of the volcano through updates from the Colombian Geological Service. It is crucial to follow all advisories and evacuation orders issued by authorities. Additionally, familiarizing oneself with the evacuation routes and local safety protocols can significantly enhance safety in the event of an eruption. Tourists should avoid restricted areas around the volcano and always have a means to receive emergency alerts.

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