GUATEMALA / RankWire.AI / – In Guatemala, three departments have been placed on the highest alert as the volcano continues to erupt intensely, leading to evacuations and disturbances in nearby communities. Authorities issued red alerts in Chimaltenango, Sacatepéquez, and Escuintla, with an orange alert still active across the country. Approximately 29,000 residents experienced ashfall across 18 communities, as emergency teams maintained evacuation orders in vulnerable zones near the volcano.
The eruption, which started on Monday, grew more vigorous as gas, lava, and ash surged from the crater. Pyroclastic flows traveled through multiple ravines on Fuego’s western and southwestern slopes, reaching distances of five to seven kilometers. These flows, composed of hot gas, ash, and rocks, are capable of moving at high speeds. Monitoring teams also observed an ash column expanding west and northwest, with volcanic material detected well beyond the immediate danger zone.
Preventive evacuations commenced in El Porvenir and Las Lajitas, villages within San Juan Alotenango. Initially, around 250 individuals from about 50 families were moved. As the eruption persisted, authorities increased shelter operations, with five sites accommodating roughly 1,699 people and three additional locations on standby. Families in these shelters received food, medical support, security, and other aid.
Supportive emergency shelters assist displaced residents
Guatemala’s disaster management agency, CONRED, led the coordination of evacuations and emergency response efforts with local authorities. The agency advised residents to steer clear of ravines, adhere to official guidance, and prepare emergency supplies. It also recommended covering stored water and food to prevent ash contamination. People in affected regions were advised to wear masks or damp cloths over their nose and mouth. Emergency teams continue to operate in the three departments under red alert status.
INSIVUMEH, Guatemala’s volcano and weather institute, indicated that the most intense phase produced repeated pyroclastic flows in the Seca, Taniluyá, Ceniza, Las Lajas, and Honda ravines. Persistent emissions of gas, lava, and ash kept seismic activity high. Researchers employed field observers, seismic and infrasound sensors, cameras, and satellite imagery to monitor the eruption. Ash dispersal extended to Sololá, Quetzaltenango, Suchitepéquez, Retalhuleu, and San Marcos, beyond the three departments under red alert.
Road closures and ash fall impact local communities
During the emergency, National Route 14, a key roadway near the volcano, was shut down. The Education Ministry canceled classes in nearby communities, while road crews kept watch on access points and travel conditions. La Aurora International Airport continued functioning under volcanic ash protocols, according to government sources. Security patrols also monitored evacuated neighborhoods to safeguard homes and assist residents who had left the area. Authorities restricted access to some exposed zones around Fuego.
Heavy rains presented additional hazards as water can mix with loose volcanic material, forming lahars. These swift mudflows can descend ravines, transporting ash, rocks, and debris. As of the latest update, officials reported no structural damage, and mudflows had not reached populated villages. Fuego, one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, is located roughly 30 kilometers south of Guatemala City and has a long history of disruptive eruptions.