Monday, February 11, at 1:51 a.m. the Poas Volcano in Alajuela, Costa Rica, registered an eruption with a column that reached 200 meters above the crater and 2,908 meters above sea level (9,538.24 ft.) this was a passive eruption that continued on through the early morning hours.

The eruption also showed the presence of incandescent material. The direction of the winds is causing the gases and ash emitted to be transported towards the southwest (Grecia and surrounding areas), the Observatory of Volcanic and Seismic Activity in Costa Rica (OVSICORI) warns neighbors of those communities to take necessary precautions, in particular those prone to suffering respiratory problems or allergies.

The National Park will remain closed this Monday as a preventive measure, a decision taken by the National Emergency Commission (CNE), National Seismology Network (RSN) and OVSICORI. The closure will only be in place for 24 hours unless new eruptions or risks are detected. ¨The park will be closed for 24 hours to have a window to observe its behavior and analyze its evolution¨.

Poas Volcano has been presenting constant passive eruptions that have increased in frequency since last week.

Health authorities recommend the use of artificial tears, wet towels, long sleeve shirts, and in extreme cases a surgical mask. Pay special attention to children and senior adults. Remember to maintain fresh clean water for pets and check the roof for accumulation of ash.