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    - Photo via Turrialba Volcano National Park - |
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Published on Tuesday,
December 14, 2021
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff Experts reopened access to the active Turrialba Volcano, in Cartago Province after updating the status determining there is no more risk for visitors. The park closed after an eruption recorded on Nov. 3. which was recorded at 6:46 a.m. and lasted approximately one minute. The ash and gas column rose about 200 meters above the crater and was dispersed by winds to the west-northwest in the direction of the Central Valley. That eruption was seen from the provinces of Cartago, Limón, Alajuela and Heredia. Ashfall was also reported in Coronado Canton, San José Province. A strong sulfur odor was perceived in San Isidro Canton, Heredia Province. But, after eight years of being closed to the public due to the risks of eruptions, the Turrialba Volcano reopened to visitors in December 2020. The National Volcano Observatory experts finally lowered the dangerous level 3, which was equivalent to a volcano in eruption activity, to level 2 (which occurs when a volcano is active). The reopening has park rangers implementing a series of security measures for visitors such as certified guides, trained tours, the use of personal protective equipment, access to protection shelters, portable equipment for the measurement of volcanic gasses, in addition to constant communication with the experts of the observatory. Park access is for all public, however, the park rangers warn that hiking tours are for expert hikers since the 7-kilometer route has a high level of difficulty. It is not recommended for people with mobility, cardiac or respiratory issues. People interested in visiting the volcano can make reservations by calling the Central Pacific Conservation Area line 2416-7068. A study shows that Turrialba and Irazu volcanoes, both located in Cartago Province, are interconnected below the ground. Recently, authorities announced that natural parks in the country will keep their doors open to visitors during the Christmas and New Year holidays. ------------------------ What park are you visiting during the holidays? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com             |
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