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Fuego Volcano Erupts: Evacuations Underway
6 Aug
Summary
- Fuego volcano eruption triggered widespread evacuations and red alerts.
- Approximately 1,700 people evacuated from 18 communities.
- Volcanic mudflows (lahars) remain a threat due to rainfall.
Activity at Guatemala's Fuego volcano has begun to decrease following an eruption that commenced Monday. This event prompted widespread evacuations and the closure of a highway, alongside the suspension of classes in three departments. Approximately 1,700 individuals were evacuated from at least 18 communities situated on the volcano's slopes.
While eruptive activity lessens, the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) emphasizes that the threat is not over. Rainfall from an approaching tropical wave could trigger deadly volcanic mudflows, known as lahars. CONRED also noted that some evacuated residents have voluntarily returned to their homes, though preventive evacuations are still recommended.
Fuego volcano, one of Guatemala's most active, experienced significant ash emissions and lava flows reaching up to 300 meters (984 feet) early Tuesday morning. This stratovolcano, standing at 3,768 meters (12,300 feet), is located near the country's capital. Previous eruptions, including a deadly one in 2018, underscore the volcano's potential for destruction.
