GUATEMALA / RankWire.AI / – In a significant escalation of volcanic activity, Guatemala has elevated the alert status to its maximum level in three departments as Fuego volcano unleashed ash, flowing lava, and perilous pyroclastic flows. The authorities declared red alert for Chimaltenango, Sacatepéquez, and Escuintla, while an orange alert remained active nationwide during the emergency. Reports indicated that ashfall impacted approximately 29,000 residents across 18 communities, as emergency teams carried out evacuations near vulnerable ravines and settlements.
The eruption became more intense on Monday, with towering columns of gas and ash billowing from the crater. Pyroclastic flows descended five ravines along the volcano’s western and southwestern slopes, with some reaching distances of five to seven kilometers from the crater. These rapid-moving currents comprise extremely hot gases, volcanic rocks, and ash. Monitoring teams also tracked an ash cloud that expanded west and northwest, affecting various regions across Guatemala.
Initial evacuations targeted El Porvenir and Las Lajitas in the San Juan Alotenango municipality, relocating about 250 residents from roughly 50 families. As the threat persisted, more people were moved from communities facing ashfall and volcanic danger, with five shelters accommodating approximately 1,699 individuals. Authorities prepared three additional shelters, providing evacuees with meals, medical aid, security, and essential supplies in these temporary facilities.
Relief efforts increase as emergency measures expand around Fuego
The disaster management agency, CONRED, coordinated evacuation operations and relief efforts within the affected departments. Officials advised residents to steer clear of ravines and follow directives from emergency personnel. They also recommended safeguarding stored food and water from falling ash. Affected communities received guidance on using masks or damp cloths to cover their faces. Response teams remained in the area to monitor ongoing conditions and support local authorities.
INSIVUMEH, the national volcano and weather institute, tracked activity through field observers, sensors, cameras, and satellite imagery. Pyroclastic flows were observed in the Seca, Taniluyá, Ceniza, Las Lajas, and Honda ravines. Emissions of gas, lava, and ash kept seismic activity heightened during the eruptive phase. Ash reached regions including Sololá, Quetzaltenango, Suchitepéquez, Retalhuleu, and San Marcos, extending beyond the three departments under the red alert.
Closure of roads accompanies volcanic crisis
Authorities shut down National Route 14, a key roadway passing close to Fuego volcano. The Education Ministry also suspended classes in nearby communities due to ashfall and ongoing emergency operations affecting daily activities. Road crews monitored access points and changing travel conditions around the volcano. La Aurora International Airport continued operating under volcanic ash procedures. Security personnel patrolled evacuated neighborhoods to safeguard properties and assist residents who had evacuated their homes.
Heavy rain added another layer of hazard, as water mixing with loose ash, rocks, and debris could trigger lahars that rapidly flow through river channels and steep ravines. No structural damages had been reported in affected communities during the latest updates, and mudflows had not reached populated areas. Located approximately 30 kilometers south of Guatemala City, Fuego remains among Central America’s most active volcanoes.