Costa Rica’s National Emergency Commission declared a green alert for Poás Volcano National Park after a recent increase in eruptive activity, while clarifying that the measure does not close the park or create new restrictions for visitors. The alert is preventive. It is meant to strengthen monitoring, improve coordination among emergency committees, and remind the public to rely on official information as Poás continues showing signs of instability.
Under Costa Rica’s emergency alert system, a green alert is used when technical agencies identify a low-risk condition that could affect or endanger a community, region, or the country, prompting wider communication and monitoring. CNE Executive President Alejandro Picado said residents near the volcano should remain alert for possible ash fall or gas emissions.
In those cases, authorities recommend using masks, covering pet food, and keeping exposed items in protected areas. The CNE also said it remains in contact with municipal and community emergency committees near the volcano to improve local monitoring and response. Visitors are being reminded that access to Poás Volcano National Park is allowed only through official entrances and authorized areas. Authorities warned that informal routes and restricted zones carry serious risks, especially while the volcano is showing unstable behavior.
The Technical Advisory Committee on Volcanology and Seismology, made up of OVSICORI-UNA, the National Seismological Network, and the Laboratory of Atmospheric Chemistry, reported that Poás activity increased in recent weeks and became more intense during the second half of April. Eruptions were recorded on April 27 and 28, adding to concerns over the volcano’s current condition.
OVSICORI has described the volcano as unstable, with changes in gas emissions, seismic activity, and internal movement. Recent reports noted a rise in tremor, variations in sulfur dioxide emissions, and signs that fluids may be moving inside the volcanic system. The volcano remains at activity level 2, classified as a warning level on a four-level scale.
The Smithsonian Institution and U.S. Geological Survey’s Global Volcanism Program also reported continued eruptive activity at Poás between May 5 and May 6, with plumes, fumarolic activity, and an aviation alert level of yellow.
The Ministry of Environment and Energy and SINAC warned the public not to enter unauthorized areas of the park. Officials said those areas may be exposed to toxic gases, ash fall, phreatic explosions, landslides, and sudden changes in volcanic activity. They also warned that illegal entry can slow emergency response if an incident occurs.
“Responsible tourism is key to protecting people’s lives and conserving our natural resources. Entering through official entrances ensures safety and allows for proper risk management. We call on the public to act responsibly and comply with current regulations,” Environment Minister Franz Tattenbach said.
MINAE-SINAC said it has stepped up monitoring, surveillance, and protection operations inside the park in coordination with other institutions. Authorities also reminded the public that recent legislation penalizes unauthorized entry into protected wildlife areas, with violators facing fines and other administrative sanctions.
Poás remains one of Costa Rica’s most visited volcanoes and within easy reach of the Central Valley. The volcano rises 2,708 meters above sea level and has long been known for gas and vapor emissions from fumaroles inside the crater.
For now, the message from authorities is caution, not panic. The park has not been closed by the green alert, but residents, guides, and visitors are being asked to follow official updates, respect posted signs, and avoid any attempt to enter restricted areas.
