- Fuego eruption began Monday morning and caused widespread evacuations, which authorities say are gradually decreasing by Wednesday, with about 1,700 people evacuated from at least 18 communities on the volcano's slopes. Some residents have returned voluntarily, and authorities urge following preventive evacuation instructions as needed.
Guatemala’s Fuego volcano cooled somewhat on Wednesday after Monday’s surge that triggered evacuations across at least 18 communities on its slopes. Authorities say activity is decreasing, but rainfall from an eastward tropical wave could trigger deadly lahars; CONRED urges vigilance and adherence to evacuation orders.1234
“No deaths or damage have been reported.”
About 1,700 people have been evacuated from at least 18 communities on the slopes of Fuego. CONRED also confirmed that some people who were returned voluntarily to their homes.
On Tuesday morning, lava reached about 300 meters in height, triggering red alerts, evacuations, a highway’s closure, and the suspension of classes in three departments.
Fuego stands at 3,768 meters (12,300 feet) and is located between the departments of Escuintla, Chimaltenango and Sacatepéquez, about 53 kilometers (33 miles) from Guatemala City.
Historically, a June 3, 2018 eruption wiped out an entire community and impacted up to 1.7 million people.
“Approximately 1,700 people have been evacuated from at least 18 communities on the volcano's slopes. CONRED confirmed some residents returned voluntarily but recommended following authorities' instructions regarding preventive evacuation.”
