In the Mendoza and Neuquén mountain range, three volcanic complexes are under yellow alert after an increase in their activity was detected. The Argentine Geological Mining Service (Segemar) issued the warning after recording earthquakes, deformations in the earth’s crust, and thermal anomalies captured by satellite. Although it is not an imminent eruption, the signs point to a stage of reinforced surveillance.
The affected areas include the Planchón-Peteroa complex in southern Mendoza, near Las Loicas, Malargüe, and Las Leñas; the Laguna del Maule complex between Mendoza and Neuquén; and the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle complex, located in Chile but with potential impact in Argentina. Each one presents indicators that, if intensified, could lead to eruptive activity of low to moderate magnitude.
In the Planchón-Peteroa complex, there is an increase in internal seismic activity, possibly linked to fluid movement inside. Although surface activity remains limited, this pattern has occurred in eruptive cycles with ash emissions. Segemar warns that sudden explosions affecting the surrounding area cannot be ruled out.
In the Laguna del Maule complex, the increase in seismicity is combined with accelerated land deformation, up to 4.2 cm per month. This phenomenon, combined with localized seismic swarms, suggests magma accumulation at shallow depths. On the other hand, Puyehue-Cordón Caulle presents moderate seismic movements, land uplift, and a recent thermal anomaly.
The Laguna del Maule volcano, between Mendoza and Neuquén, is under yellow alert. Photo: Argentine Volcanic Surveillance Observatory.
Prevention and Response to Volcanic Risk
The yellow alert means that the volcanoes show changes in their behavior that could evolve into an eruption. In this scenario, authorities recommend staying away from active craters, following official reports, and reviewing contingency plans in nearby localities.
In Argentina, the National System for Comprehensive Risk Management (SINAGIR) centralizes prevention measures, including evacuation routes, provision of respiratory protection equipment, and shelter protocols in the event of ashfall. Coordination between security agencies and local communities is crucial to minimize risks.
Furthermore, it is suggested that residents and visitors inform themselves before accessing mountainous areas, respecting the instructions of park rangers and Civil Defense. The experience of past eruptions, such as the Puyehue in 2011, demonstrates that ash can affect crops, water reserves, and air transport.
Beyond the Yellow Alert: Other Ways to Enjoy Ecotourism
Nature tourism does not have to be limited to volcanic areas. Argentina offers a wide network of destinations for safe ecotourism, such as natural reserves, wetlands, national parks, and conservation ranches. Activities like hiking, bird watching, biking, and river or lake navigation can be carried out in these places, always following low environmental impact practices.
Another option is community rural tourism, which allows visitors to learn about local cultures, sustainable production, and directly contribute to regional economies. These experiences, besides being safe, promote the preservation of natural resources and strengthen the cultural identity of each region.
Watching marine wildlife in Península Valdés, walking in the Esteros del Iberá, or exploring glaciers in Santa Cruz are examples of proposals that combine enjoyment, environmental education, and respect for ecosystems. The goal is to enjoy nature without leaving a negative impact.
Volcano of the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle complex, one of those under yellow alert. Photo: Google Maps.
Argentina and its Volcanoes
In Argentine territory, there are around 38 active or potentially active volcanoes, most of them distributed along the Andes mountain range, from Jujuy to Tierra del Fuego. Many of them are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a geological strip with intense seismic and volcanic activity.
Provinces such as Catamarca, La Rioja, Mendoza, Neuquén, and Santa Cruz concentrate a large part of these volcanic complexes. Some, like Lanín or Copahue, are also important tourist attractions. Others remain in remote and hard-to-reach areas, where their monitoring depends on satellite technology and seismic stations.
Knowledge and constant vigilance are essential to anticipate risks and plan preventive actions. Thus, Argentina combines science, risk management, and environmental education to coexist with these natural giants in a safer way.
