Ecuadoran Volcano Cotopaxi has erupted this morning, with two small explosions heard in the early hours and reports of falling ash and the smell of sulphur coming in from Quito and Machachi. This explosion will be Cotopaxi’s first in over 75 years.
Cotopaxi is an active volcano in the Andes Mountains, located about 30 miles (50 kms) south of Quito, Ecuador. At the height of 5,987 m (19,600 ft) it is one of the world’s highest active volcanoes in the world.
The volcano ash has affected visibility in Quito and other nearby areas. Authorities have asked locals to use precautions when venturing outside to avoid inhaling ash. No evacuations have been ordered yet.
Ecuadoran officials have also closed Cotopaxi National Park due to the heightened activity. Visitors should take extra care if travelling near to the affected areas, and monitor the news for updates or alerts.
Cotopaxi is considered one of the world’s most dangerous volcanoes due to a glacial cover that makes it prone to fast-moving volcanic rock and mud flows, or lahares, and its proximity to a heavily populated area.