Poás Volcano National Park remains closed Tuesday

Poás Volcano remains under observation following Sunday’s eruption, and the National Park is closed to the public Tuesday, Costa Rican authorities said.

The closure was recommended by the National Emergency Commission (CNE), who cited the presence of “very acidic and highly corrosive” acid rain and Sunday night’s 25-minute hydrothermal eruption.

Tuesday, CNE officials will monitor the volcano’s activity to assess tourist and park ranger safety before allowing the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) to reopen the park.

If volcanic activity does not increase further, the park is expected to reopen Wednesday, CNE says.

According to CNE, the acid rain and ash generated during recent volcanic activity can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation and allergies, particularly in young children and the elderly.

Nearly 50,000 people visited Poás Volcano National Park in the last four months of 2018 after it reopened with new safety measures implemented.