Donna joins the Cuenca Klutz Club and Volcanic Ash Arrives

I have a lot to blog about, been taking some photos to share but got sidetracked with a face plant while shopping in my favorite little place, Casa de la Mujer. I took a step forward and missed a step down....that was all it took.

End result? Sore nose, big lump on my forehead that spread into a black eye, a left sprained ankle, a right swollen and bruised knee and general aches and pains in my shoulders. It could have been worse. Stu got me home, made ice slushies for my knee and ankle and used two bandanas for a compression wrap on my ankle.

Now into day three, I think, and doing much better but still keeping the legs elevated. The swelling is almost gone on the knee and ankle but still staying off my feet and keeping them elevated. Hoping by Friday I can get out for some fresh air.

The other news has been the volcanic dust in our area from Saturdays eruption of Tungurahua. We are 210 km (130 miles) away but the winds were just right to send the ash our way. Here is a map that shows Cuenca and the relationship to the volcanoes.

We kept our windows closed yesterday and stayed indoors. This is copied from one of the local newsletters we receive.

Cuenca Gets Volcanic Ashfall

  

For only the second time in memory, Cuenca has been dusted with volcanic ash. It came early Sunday morning from the eruption of the Tungurahua volcano, 210 kilometers to the north. The previous ashfall came during an erpution of the Sangay volcano almost 60 years ago. According to meteorologists, the ash from Tungurahua reached Cuenca due to a variation in the normal pattern of high-altitude winds.

  

The overnight ashfall was enough to force temporary closure of the Cuenca airport and bring out battalions of city street sweepers; the city opted for brooms, concerned that washing away the ash with water could clog city sewers. Cuenca got off easy: In towns and cities near the volcano, such as Ambato and Baños, ash deposits were up to four inches deep.

  

Saturday's explosions at Tungurahua sent an ash plume almost six miles into the atmosphere and aviation authorities said the cloud could shut down air travel for the entire country if it persists, and if winds shift to the west.

  

Although health officials said the Cuenca ashfall did not pose serious health threats, they advised people with respiratory problems to remain indoors and wear masks when they go outside.

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