A volcano-tectonic earthquake was recorded on the 18th at a depth of 4.3 km. Continuous ash clouds are rising above the summit with ashfalls. A total of 22,000 people have been evacuated from the area surrounding the Tungurahua Volcano. Measures are being taken to protect the Agoyan hydroelectic power plant located on the Pastaza River. This information was summarized from the Global Volcanism Program .
Volcanic tremor is so strong as to mask other seismic signals.
Incandescent tephra has fallen on the W flank. The crater has become enlarged on a N-S axis, and a stream of gas and ash continues to rise from the crater. Very high sulphur dioxide S02 levels have been measured. Inclinometers have detected signs of cone deformation. On 18 October, the Tungurahua Volcano covered the surrounding areas with a blanket of ash.