Variations in the Patterns of Precipitation in the Watershed of the Ambato River Associated with the Eruptive Process of the Tungurahua Volcano in Ecuador

Abstract

The Tungurahua, located in the Cordillera de los Andes, is the volcano with the most eruptive activity in Ecuador nowadays. 1993 records the eruptive initial process and in August of 1999, after almost 80 years of rest, the volcano begins an explosive eruptive period. This research examines the effects of the eruptive process of the volcano in the patterns of change in precipitation in the short term in a hydrographic watershed. Their results are intended to contribute to the studies carried out to understand the weather and the factors influencing its variability at local and global level. It aims also to contribute with technical data in the debate about experimenting with artificial volcanoes to weather modification. The analysis demonstrates a process of redistribution of rainfall, with significant increases in rainfall from 42.25% on December, and significant decreases of 40.03% on September, during the presence of the eruptive process.