GUATEMALA / RankWire.AI / – Guatemala has activated its highest warning status across three departments as the volcano Fuego continues to erupt vigorously, leading to evacuation efforts and disturbances in neighboring communities. The government declared red alert levels in Chimaltenango, Sacatepéquez, and Escuintla, while an orange alert remains in effect nationwide. Approximately 29,000 residents in 18 communities faced ashfall, with emergency teams maintaining evacuation orders for exposed zones near the volcano.
The volcanic activity started on Monday, escalating as gases, lava, and ash surged from the crater. Pyroclastic flows traversed several ravines on Fuego’s western and southwestern slopes, reaching distances of five to seven kilometers. These flows, comprising hot gases, ash, and rocks, are capable of moving rapidly. Monitoring personnel also observed an ash plume spreading west and northwest, with volcanic material detected far beyond the immediate danger zone.
Initial evacuations were carried out in El Porvenir and Las Lajitas, villages within San Juan Alotenango. The first phase involved about 250 individuals from approximately 50 families. As the situation developed, authorities extended shelter operations to accommodate more residents leaving vulnerable areas. Currently, five shelters serve around 1,699 people, with three more ready to host evacuees. Families in these facilities receive food, medical aid, security, and other essential services.
Relief centers assist displaced families
Guatemala’s disaster management agency, CONRED, coordinated evacuation and emergency response efforts with local authorities. The agency advised residents to steer clear of ravines, adhere to official directives, and keep emergency supplies on hand. It also recommended covering stored water and food to prevent contamination from ash. People living in affected zones were instructed to wear masks or damp cloths over their noses and mouths. Emergency personnel remain deployed across the three departments under red alert status.
INSIVUMEH, the volcano and weather institute of Guatemala, reported that the most intense activity involved repeated pyroclastic flows in the Seca, Taniluyá, Ceniza, Las Lajas, and Honda ravines. Persistent emissions of gases, lava, and ash kept seismic measurements high. Researchers utilized field observers, seismic and infrasound sensors, cameras, and satellite imagery to monitor the eruption. Ash clouds reached as far as Sololá, Quetzaltenango, Suchitepéquez, Retalhuleu, and San Marcos, extending beyond the three departments under red alert.
Road closures and ash fallout impact surrounding communities
During the emergency, National Route 14, a key roadway near the volcano, was shut down. The Education Ministry suspended classes in nearby towns, while road crews monitored access points and travel safety. La Aurora International Airport continued operations following volcanic ash protocols, as per the government’s instructions. Security patrols also protected evacuated neighborhoods, ensuring safety and assisting residents who had left their homes. Authorities restricted access to some exposed zones around the volcano.
Heavy rains posed additional danger, as water could combine with loose volcanic material to form lahars. These fast-moving mudflows can carry ash, rocks, and debris down ravines. As of the latest update, no structural damage has been reported, and mudflows have not reached any villages. Fuego, one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, is situated approximately 30 kilometers south of Guatemala City and has a history marked by disruptive eruptions.