After reviewing results of geochemical analyses from the affected La Virgen area, the Servicio Geológico Colombiano (SGC) institute ruled out leaking gases to be volcanic/geologic in origin.
High-than-usual concentrations of methane gas (CH4) were registered, way higher as it occurs in volcanic areas worldwide. Besides, no significant change has been registered at the volcano and remains at stable levels. Moreover, measurements of SO2 concentrations resulted in its absence which makes this analyse more likely. Although highly elevated ground temperatures were detected, close to 700 °C, no indicator shows a relation to the volcanic activity.
The alert status remains at Green.
On 16 May, gas and steam emissions have been detected in the area of La Virgen sector, in the 20-meter-long segment on the Bogotá-Manizales highway, from Fresno to Manizales between the departments of Tolima and Caldas.
Source: Servicio Geológico Colombiano volcano activity update 23 May 2023