Based on webcam images, satellite views, and seismic data the Buenos Aires VAAC reported that during 1-4 and 6-7 March sporadic gas-and-ash puffs rose from Sabancaya. Weather clouds often hindered observations of the volcano. On 3 March ash plumes rose to altitudes of 9.1-10.4 km (30,000-34,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W, SW, and S. Intermittent increases in seismicity were also detected that day.

Geological Summary. Sabancaya, located in the saddle NE of Ampato and SE of Hualca Hualca volcanoes, is the youngest of these volcanic centers and the only one to have erupted in historical time. The oldest of the three, Nevado Hualca Hualca, is of probable late-Pliocene to early Pleistocene age. The name Sabancaya (meaning "tongue of fire" in the Quechua language) first appeared in records in 1595 CE, suggesting activity prior to that date. Holocene activity has consisted of Plinian eruptions followed by emission of voluminous andesitic and dacitic lava flows, which form an extensive apron around the volcano on all sides but the south. Records of observed eruptions date back to 1750 CE.

Source: Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)