The National Emergency Commission has declared a Green Alert due to the ongoing eruptions of Poás Volcano, located in Alajuela Province.

This alert aims to keep emergency teams informed and prepared for any changes in the volcano's activity.

Photos via National Emergency Commission and Volcanological and Seismological Observatory.

The most recent eruption occurred on Tuesday at 10:31 a.m., as reported by the Volcanological and Seismological Observatory (Ovsicori). The eruption sent a column of gas and ash into the air, while low-frequency sustained earthquakes were detected during the event.

While admission to several areas of the Poás Volcano National Park remains open. Access to the crater region has been restricted to no more than 56 visitors per group. This measure is a precaution against the possibility of further eruptions.

Currently, the volcano is under a level two risk alert, indicating ongoing volcanic activity. This level of caution allows experts to monitor the situation closely for any increase in eruptions, gas emissions, temperature changes, earthquakes, ash fall, acid rain, or hazardous gases.

The alert also empowers park rangers to take necessary steps to prevent visitors from getting too close to the volcano’s crater for their safety.

The park spans approximately 16,000 acres, with its summit reaching an elevation of 8,900 feet. Visitors are allowed to walk to the edge of the main crater, depending on current conditions.

The main crater is 950 feet wide and remains highly active, regularly exhibiting geyser and lava outbursts. In addition to the main crater, the park is home to two smaller craters: Von Frantzius and Botos. The Botos Crater is a popular tourist attraction, featuring a stunning, frozen green lake with a diameter of 1,200 feet.

The park also preserves a wide variety of plant and animal species, including several bird species such as the clay-colored robin, quetzal, hummingbirds, tanagers, flycatchers, and toucans. Among the park's mammals are coyotes, rabbits, and marmots, among others.

The Volcanological and Seismological Observatory (OVSICORI) is a research institute of the National University of Costa Rica that monitors seismic and volcanic activity.

The National Emergency Commission (CNE) works with people and emergency professionals to strengthen, sustain, and enhance the county's ability to plan for, defend against, respond to, recover from, and reduce any potential hazards.

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