The Colombian Geological Survey (SGC) on Saturday raised the warning level for the Borací volcano from yellow to orange, due to its increased likelihood of eruption and impact on indigenous and peasant communities in the surrounding areas.
The altitude of Bourassa, near the city of Popayan (southwest), is more than 4,600 metres. It is one of the most active and monitored volcanoes in Colombia and recorded a major eruption in March 1977.
The Council noted in a statement that the bloc is witnessing important changes in its seismic activity, which “increases the possibility of a major eruption, without this meaning that it is imminent.”
The orange alert is the stage before the red stage, which is designated for eruptions.
The authority added that the seismic activity is linked to the current emission of gas and ash columns with a height of more than 1,000 metres.
Since 2021, Boracé volcano has shown gradual changes in its activity.
If it erupts, it could affect several indigenous and peasant communities, as well as locations such as Popayán, the capital of Cauca province, according to the SGC.