Volcanic Eruptions in colombia: Puracé and Curiquinga Spark Emergency in Indigenous Communities
Popayán, Colombia - A recent eruption of the Puracé and curiquinga volcanoes in southwestern Colombia has triggered an emergency in nearby indigenous communities, leaving thousands facing severe economic and environmental challenges.The Colombian Geological Service (SGC) reported four gas emission points, two from Puracé and two new ones from Curiquinga, following the eruptions on January 20th. Thes eruptions have had a devastating impact on the indigenous reservations of Coconuco, Paletará, and Puracé, home to approximately 8,000 people.The communities have declared a state of emergency due to widespread damage to infrastructure, agricultural production, and access to basic services. Water sources have been contaminated, leaving villages without a reliable supply. Crops such as potatoes, corn, strawberries, and peas have been wholly destroyed, and milk production, which stood at 15,000 liters per day, has been halted. Livestock farming, crucial for supplying meat to the city of Popayán, has also been paralyzed.
“we urgently need water tank trucks to supply all the villages, as well as water storage tanks,” said Miguel Yace, traditional indigenous authority of Coconuco. “These have not yet reached us, and it is a critical need.”
The community is demanding immediate attention from the National Government and entities like the Ministry of Agriculture. They are requesting water, food, medicines, health supplies, forgiveness of agricultural credits, and resources to help them revive their crops.
“In a few days, we will need food for human consumption because the impact is high,” Yace added.”Milk can no longer be consumed, vegetables can no longer be harvested, and meat is also affected. The urgent request is that they can support us.”
The communities are calling for regional solidarity and for national authorities to conduct a technical visit and implement sustainable solutions to address this emergency.
Yellow Alert Remains in Effect
Jaime Raigosa, technical leader of the volcanological and seismological Observatory of Popayán, stated that while the alert level for Puracé remains yellow, there are no plans to change it at this time.
“The volcano has recorded ash emissions and seismic signals, such as volcanic tremors, which indicate the movement of magma below the surface,” Raigosa explained. “Even though the alert remains at the yellow level, constant monitoring is necessary as it may increase if conditions change.”
He also noted that while the volcano emits bluish materials that adhere to ash particles, the concentrations are low and generally pose no health risks.
Puracé Volcano: Yellow Alert Remains in Effect as Seismic Activity Continues
The Puracé volcano in southwestern Colombia continues to show signs of unrest, prompting the Geological Survey of Colombia (SGC) to maintain a yellow alert status. While seismic activity has decreased in intensity and fluid emissions have reduced compared to earlier this month, experts warn that the situation remains dynamic and requires close monitoring.
The SGC and the National Disaster Risk Management Unit (UNGRD) are urging residents living near the volcano to stay informed and heed official instructions. They emphasize the importance of following updates and guidance issued through official channels, including extraordinary bulletins and local authority announcements.
A yellow alert signifies that unusual changes in volcanic activity are occurring, but the risk of an imminent eruption remains low. Though, the potential for sporadic ash emissions, small explosions, and thermal anomalies cannot be ruled out.
What to Expect During a Yellow Alert
While the current situation is not considered an immediate threat, residents shoudl be prepared for potential ashfall.
Here are some precautionary measures:
Wear a mask: Protect your respiratory system from ash particles.
Secure water sources: Cover wells and cisterns to prevent contamination.
Keep windows and doors closed: Minimize the entry of ash into your home.
Understanding Volcanic Alert Levels
Colombia utilizes a four-tiered system to communicate volcanic activity levels:
Green: No change, no danger to the population.
Yellow: Unstable,minor explosions,fumarole appearance,increased monitoring parameters.
Orange: Meaningful variation, possible increase in activity.
* Red: Eruptive event expected, major eruption imminent or in progress.
The SGC issued an orange alert for Puracé last year, highlighting the volcano’s potential for significant activity.
The ongoing monitoring and analysis by the SGC and UNGRD will provide valuable insights into the volcano’s behavior and guide any necessary actions to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities.
I’m ready to moderate! Let’s bring together Time.news’s editor and a volcanology expert for a lively discussion.
Setting the Scene:
Time.news Editor: “We’re covering the devastating impact of the recent volcanic eruptions on indigenous communities in Colombia.With us today is Dr. Sofia Ramirez, a leading volcanologist and expert on the Puracé and Curiquinga volcanoes. Dr.ramirez,thank you for joining us.”
Dr. Ramirez: “Its my pleasure to be here. The situation in Colombia is truly concerning.”
Time.news Editor: “Dr. Ramirez, can you explain what caused these eruptions and what makes them notably concerning?”
(Dr. Ramirez provides a technical explanation of the volcanic processes at play,mentioning recent seismic activity,changes in gas emissions,and potential magma movement.she highlights the unpredictable nature of volcanic eruptions and the challenges of accurate forecasting).
Time.news Editor: “The article paints a grim picture of the impact on the indigenous communities. Can you elaborate on the specific threats they face? Miguel Yace, a traditional leader, mentioned contaminated water sources and destroyed crops. What are the longer-term consequences for these communities?”
(dr. Ramirez discusses the immediate dangers: ashfall, lahars (volcanic mudflows), and the contamination of water sources. She emphasizes the loss of livelihood and the potential for long-term environmental damage, impacting food security, agriculture, and water systems).
Time.news Editor: “The indigenous communities are calling for immediate assistance. What role can organizations like the Colombian Geological Service (SGC) and the National Government play in mitigating the impact of these eruptions?”
(Dr.Ramirez discusses the importance of early warning systems, evacuation planning, and providing essential resources like clean water, food, and medical supplies. She emphasizes the need for long-term support to rebuild infrastructure and help communities adapt to the changing habitat.)
Time.news Editor: “Dr. Ramirez, what lessons can be learned from this event to better prepare for future volcanic eruptions, particularly in regions with vulnerable communities?”
(Dr. Ramirez highlights the importance of community outreach, participatory risk assessment, and strengthening disaster preparedness plans. She stresses the need for greater investment in research and monitoring of volcanic activity.)
Time.news Editor: “Thank you, Dr. ramirez, for your insightful analysis.This situation in Colombia underlines the urgent need for international cooperation and support in mitigating the impact of natural disasters on vulnerable communities.”
Let me know if you’d like to explore any of these points further or add new topics to the discussion!