Sulfur Smell Reported Near Costa Rica's Poás Volcano

On Friday, April 25, 2024, residents in Sarchí and Grecia, Costa Rica, approximately 17 km southwest of thePoás volcano, reported a strong sulfur smell in the area. The Observatorio Vulcanológico y Sismológico de Costa Rica (Ovsicori) explained that the smell was likely due to increased gas emissions from the volcano.

Why this matters: The increased activity at Poás volcano has significant implications for the safety of nearby communities and could potentially disrupt regional air travel. Moreover, this event is part of a larger trend of heightened volcanic activity worldwide, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and preparedness.

The Poás volcano has been experiencing heightened activity in recent days, with intense gas and vapor emissions observed from the Boca A and Boca C craters. The emissions have reached heights of several hundred meters, and incandescence has been visible at night. The sulfur smell reported by residents is attributed to the increased emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas, which reached approximately 493 tons per day.

The Ovsicori has maintained an alert level of 3 (Orange) on a four-level scale, indicating increased activity at the Poás volcano. This alert level signifies the potential for explosive eruptions, ash emissions, and significant gas output. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have advised residents and visitors to exercise caution and stay informed about any updates or changes in the volcano's behavior.

The Poás volcano, located in central Costa Rica, is one of the country's most active volcanoes. It has a history of frequent eruptions, with the most recent major eruption occurring in 2017. Thevolcano's crater lake, known for its striking turquoise color, is one of the world's most acidic lakes due to the high concentration of volcanic gases dissolved in its waters.

The increased activity at Poás volcano comes amidst reports ofheightened volcanic activityin other parts of the world, including the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle complex in Chile, the Tofua volcano in Tonga, and the Ruang volcano in Indonesia. As the Poás volcano continues to exhibit signs of unrest, authorities remain vigilant in monitoring its activity and ensuring the safety of nearby communities.

Key Takeaways

• Strong sulfur smell reported in Sarchí and Grecia, Costa Rica, due to increased gas emissions from Poás volcano.
• Poás volcano's alert level remains at 3 (Orange), indicating potential for explosive eruptions and ash emissions.
• Sulfur dioxide emissions reached 493 tons/day, causing the strong sulfur smell.
• Residents and visitors advised to exercise caution and stay informed about updates on the volcano's behavior.
• Poás volcano's increased activity part of a larger trend of heightened volcanic activity worldwide.