Guatemala’s Volcano of Fire has erupted, prompting the evacuation of approximately 300 families, with authorities cautioning that an additional 30,000 individuals in neighbouring areas may also be at risk. The eruption commenced overnight, and as of now, there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities.
At 3,763 metres, this volcano ranks among the most active in Central America, having previously erupted in June 2023. The recent eruption has released substantial amounts of gas and ash into the atmosphere, resulting in the closure of local schools and a vital roadway that connects surrounding communities.
Claudinne Ugalde, the secretary of the disaster agency, indicated that efforts are underway to encourage the evacuees and those in the affected jurisdictions to either evacuate or self-evacuate. A significant concern is the potential for lahars—dangerous mixtures of ash, mud, rocks, and debris that can devastate entire towns. This hazard is underscored by memories of the 2018 eruption, which tragically claimed 194 lives and left another 234 people unaccounted for.
Isaac García, a 43-year-old resident of El Porvenir on the volcano’s slopes, expressed his concerns while evacuating with his family. Recalling the unfortunate events of 2018, he stated, “We were a little worried because a few years ago the volcano became active,” as he donned a mask to shield himself from the falling ash. He and his family sought refuge in a shelter established in San Juan Alotenango, accompanied by relatives.
Located around 53 kilometres from Guatemala’s capital, the volcano’s output of volcanic material has so far been classified as weak to moderate. However, Guatemala’s disaster response agency has warned that these levels are anticipated to rise as the situation develops. The ongoing efforts to safeguard the population highlight the potential dangers posed by this formidable natural phenomenon.