IG reported that although visual observations were limited due to cloud cover, ash-and-steam and ash plumes from Tungurahua rose to altitudes of 6-9 km (19,700-30,000 ft) a.s.l. during 7-13 November. Plumes mainly drifted W and SW and ashfall was reported from multiple areas downwind, including areas to the N and NW. Roars and "cannon shots" were also reported from several areas. A seismic station recorded a lahar on the SW flank that lasted about 30 minutes on 10 November. The next day, fumarolic activity on the NW edge of the crater rim was noted. Incandescent blocks propelled from the summit landed on the flanks and rolled a few hundred meters during 7-13 November. Incandescent blocks traveled 1 km down the flanks on 12 November.

Geological Summary. Tungurahua, a steep-sided andesitic-dacitic stratovolcano that towers more than 3 km above its northern base, is one of Ecuador's most active volcanoes. Three major edifices have been sequentially constructed since the mid-Pleistocene over a basement of metamorphic rocks. Tungurahua II was built within the past 14,000 years following the collapse of the initial edifice. Tungurahua II collapsed about 3,000 years ago and produced a large debris-avalanche deposit to the west. The modern glacier-capped stratovolcano (Tungurahua III) was constructed within the landslide scarp. Historical eruptions have all originated from the summit crater, accompanied by strong explosions and sometimes by pyroclastic flows and lava flows that reached populated areas at the volcano's base. Prior to a long-term eruption beginning in 1999 that caused the temporary evacuation of the city of Baños at the foot of the volcano, the last major eruption had occurred from 1916 to 1918, although minor activity continued until 1925.

Source: Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN)