The National Emergency Commission (CNE) has downgraded the alert level at Poás Volcano National Park in Alajuela Province from Red to Orange, citing a decrease in volcanic activity.

Officials attributed the change to a reduction in the frequency and intensity of eruptions, as well as a decline in volcanic debris flowing through nearby rivers, including  Desagüe,  Agrio, Anono and Gorrión. The Orange alert, the third-highest on the scale, advises emergency response teams to remain on high alert and ready to respond if conditions worsen.

In nearby towns of Grecia and Sarchí, located along the slopes of the volcano, the alert level has been lowered from Orange to Yellow. This intermediate-level warning instructs emergency personnel to stay prepared for potential large-scale eruptions that could impact these communities directly.

Additional surrounding areas, Poás, Naranjo, Zarcero,  Río Cuarto, Sabanilla and Sarapiqui, have had their alerts reduced from Yellow to Green. A Green alert signals that emergency services should remain on standby and continue monitoring for any changes in volcanic behavior.

The Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (OVSICORI) reported the most recent eruption occurred at 10:22 a.m. on Sunday, June 1. The event sent a column of gas rising more than 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) above the crater. No ash, rocks, mud, or sulfur-laced water were released during the eruption.

The volcano's alert level is currently at 3, signaling a potential threat to nearby communities. This heightened caution allows experts to closely monitor ongoing eruptions, gas emissions, temperature changes, seismic activity, ash fall, acid rain, and hazardous gases.


As a precaution, Poás Volcano National Park is closed to tourists until further notice. Visitors who purchased tickets during the closure may reschedule their visit or request a refund by contacting the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) at poas.info@sinac.go.cr.

To reschedule, visitors must provide their preferred date and time. For refunds, they must submit a copy of the ticket, proof of payment, a valid ID, and bank account details for the transfer.


Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation as volcanic activity persists.


The national park covers approximately 16,000 acres, with its summit reaching an elevation of 8,900 feet. Visitors are typically allowed to walk to the edge of the main crater, depending on conditions.
 
 
The main crater, measuring 950 feet wide, remains highly active, regularly producing geyser-like eruptions and lava outbursts. The park also features two smaller craters: Von Frantzius and Botos. The Botos Crater is a popular tourist attraction, known for its striking green lake with a diameter of 1,200 feet.
 
 
In addition to its volcanic landscapes, the park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. Birdwatchers may spot the clay-colored robin, quetzal, hummingbirds, tanagers, flycatchers, and toucans. Mammals found in the park include pumas, coyotes, rabbits, and marmots among many others.

A.M. Costa Rica encourages readers to share this alert with their networks.

OVSICORI is a research institute at the National University of Costa Rica that monitors seismic and volcanic activity.


CNE coordinates emergency preparedness and response efforts across the country.


SINAC manages Costa Rica’s national parks and protected areas.