Sacred Guardian: The Resilient Spirit of Purace Volcano

Oliverio Quira, a member of the Coconuco Indigenous community near Purace volcano in Colombia, remains calm amid an eruption alert due to seismic activities. The Coconuco see the volcano as a sacred spirit of their land, while authorities prepare for potential evacuations to ensure public safety.

Oliverio Quira frequently checks on his cattle near Colombia's Purace volcano, remaining unafraid despite a recent eruption alert due to increased seismic activity. The Indigenous Coconuco people view the volcano as a sacred protector of their land.

With authorities prepping for potential evacuations of about 800 residents, the Purace community remains on edge. Many rely on agriculture and have deep cultural ties to the land, complicating evacuation plans. Authorities are currently working on providing temporary shelters and essential resources for the community.

The Purace volcano, standing over 15,000 feet above sea level, is highly active with over 51 eruptions recorded since 1400. It last erupted significantly in 1977. The Coconuco perform rituals to honor the volcano, offering it corn, plants, and guarapo, a traditional drink, while elders recounting historical eruptions assure younger generations of their safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)