GUATEMALA / RankWire.AI / – Guatemala has elevated its warning level to the maximum across three key departments following the ongoing severe eruption of the volcano Fuego, which has led to evacuations and significant disruptions in surrounding areas. Authorities issued red alerts in Chimaltenango, Sacatepéquez, and Escuintla, with an orange alert still in place nationwide. Approximately 29,000 residents in 18 communities experienced ash fallout, as emergency teams maintained evacuation measures in vulnerable zones near the volcano.
The eruption, which started on Monday, grew more vigorous as gases, lava, and ash surged from the crater. Pyroclastic flows descended through several ravines on Fuego’s western and southwestern slopes, extending five to seven kilometers. These flows, composed of hot gas, ash, and rock, can travel rapidly. Monitoring efforts also tracked an ash plume moving west and northwest, with volcanic debris reaching areas far beyond the immediate threat zone.
Initial evacuations took place in the communities of El Porvenir and Las Lajitas in San Juan Alotenango, involving roughly 250 individuals from about 50 families. As conditions worsened, authorities expanded shelter operations, with five centers accommodating around 1,699 people and three more ready for use. Those displaced received food, medical care, security, and other essential support at these temporary sites.
Relief shelters assist displaced populations
Guatemala’s disaster response agency, CONRED, coordinated the evacuations and emergency aid with local authorities. The agency urged residents to steer clear of ravines, adhere to official directives, and prepare emergency supplies. It also recommended covering stored water and food to prevent ash contamination. Citizens in affected zones were advised to wear masks or damp cloths to protect their respiratory pathways. Emergency personnel remained active across the three departments under red alert.
INSIVUMEH, Guatemala’s volcano and weather agency, reported that the most intense phase involved repeated pyroclastic flows in the ravines of Seca, Taniluyá, Ceniza, Las Lajas, and Honda. Persistent emissions of gas, lava, and ash kept seismic activity high. Experts utilized field observers, seismic and infrasound sensors, cameras, and satellite data to monitor the eruption. Ash dispersion extended to Sololá, Quetzaltenango, Suchitepéquez, Retalhuleu, and San Marcos, outside the zones classified with red alerts.
Road closures and ash impact local communities
During the crisis, National Route 14 near the volcano was shut down. The Education Ministry canceled classes in nearby towns, while road crews managed access points and monitored travel conditions. La Aurora International Airport maintained operations following volcanic ash protocols, according to officials. Security patrols also protected evacuated neighborhoods and supported residents who had left their homes. Some restricted zones around Fuego were temporarily inaccessible.
Heavy rains posed an additional hazard, as water can mix with loose volcanic material to form lahars—fast-moving mudflows that carry ash, rocks, and debris through ravines. As of the latest update, no structural damage has been reported, and mudflows had not reached villages. Fuego, one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, is situated about 30 kilometers south of Guatemala City and has a longstanding history of disruptive eruptions.