Guatemala’s Fuego Volcano Bursts, Sending Lava and Ash Into The Sky
The Fuego volcano, already renowned as one of the most active in the Western Hemisphere, erupted on Monday, spewing molten lava into the air and igniting ash plumes that rolled over surrounding terrain.
Government agencies reported persistent pyroclastic currents—rivers of ash and hot gas—traversing the volcano’s south‑eastern flank through early Tuesday. The Ministry of Disaster Management (Conred) declared a nationwide orange alert, the second highest level of emergency warning, and advised residents to remain indoors with windows and doors sealed and to avoid all areas on the volcano’s slopes.
At least two villages adjacent to Fuego have been evacuated to safeguard communities from the ongoing crisis. Schools near the volcano have cancelled classes, and tourists in the nearby city of Antigua—a UNESCO World Heritage destination—have been cautioned to desist from visiting the volcano’s hazard zones.
The 2018 eruption of Fuego that killed over 200 people in a sudden pyroclastic flow serves as a stark reminder of the volcano’s deadly potential. Scientists and local officials stress that future eruptions can expand the reach of ash clouds and trigger new flows that threaten both residents and travelers.
Residents are staying tuned to Conred’s updates, while emergency teams prepare for further bursts that could increase the danger to thousands living in the vicinity of this powerful stratovolcano.
By Vanessa Buschschlüter | Latin America Online Editor | 3 hours ago
