* Astronomy

According to the National Geophysical Institute of Ecuador, an increase in the volcanic activity of the Tungurahua Volcano has been recorded since 10 May 2006. Since then, strong explosions and hundreds of tremors have been registered, with moderate and strong emissions of steam and gas, and very low ash fall. Loud roars and incandescent rocks coming from the volcano are reported daily.

The 5,106 meters high Tungurahua volcano, known as “The Black Giant”, is located 135 km southeast of Quito. Its latest eruption began in October 1999 and prompted the temporary evacuation of the town of Baños. Since then, the volcano’s activity has been characterised by periods of intense activity, particularly in August 2001, September 2002 and June 2003, combined with calmer periods.

On 16 May, the President of Ecuador declared a state of emergency in several villages in the affected provinces of Tungurahua and Chimborazo.

On 23 May, the National Geophysical Institute of Ecuador reported that the volcanic activity was decreasing. The technicians of the institute, who monitor it around the clock, indicated that the last explosion was moderate and caused a slight drop of ashes in Bilbao, in Chimborazo. The emanation of sulfuric ashes has decreased as well and there are no signs of likely eruptions. Seven counties in the provinces of Tunguragua and Chimborazo would need to be evacuated in case of a large-scale eruption.



Position; 1°28′1″S, 78°26′30″W