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Annual Briefing

The OSAC Annual Briefing, held each November in Washington DC provides a unique opportunity to connect with experts from both the public and private sectors to discuss emerging threats, review lessons learned from recent global events, and to share information on risk mitigation and management.

Annual Briefing

Raised Alert: Cauca Department (Colombia), Puracé Volcano in Puracé National Natural Park

Raised Alert: Cauca Department (Colombia), Puracé Volcano in Puracé National Natural Park

*OSAC does not issue alerts. These notices are sourced from the issuing U.S. Embassy & Consulate
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August 5, 2026
 

Location: Puracé National Natural Park, Cauca Department, Colombia

Event: On August 1, 2026, the Colombian Geological Service raised the alert level for Puracé volcano,  near Popayán, from yellow to orange. The volcano is a popular hiking destination.  The volcano last erupted in 2023.

According to Colombian authorities, increased seismic activity has led to elevated emissions of volcanic gases and ash from the Puracé, Piocollo, and Curiquinga volcanic system.  Gas and ash emissions can occur with little or no warning and may pose serious health and safety risks to visitors in the area.

You can access the most recent alerts and notices from the Colombian Geologic Service here .

Actions to Take:

  • Avoid the immediate area surrounding Puracé volcano and other restricted areas within the park.
  • Do not hike to the summit or enter the crater (caldera).
  • Follow the instructions of Colombian authorities and park officials.
  • Monitor local news and official updates for changing conditions.
  • Reconsider travel plans to the affected area until volcanic activity decreases.

Assistance: 

U.S. Embassy Bogota, Colombia
Tel. +57-1-275-2000 or 601-275-2000
https://co.usembassy.gov/services/contact-acs-form/
https://co.usembassy.gov
U.S. Consular Agency, Barranquilla
conagencybarranquilla@state.gov
U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs
1-888-407-4747 or 1-202-501-4444
Colombia Country Information 
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