- The Fuego volcano entered a more intense eruptive phase, spewing ash and sending pyroclastic flows down five ravines.
- Guatemalan authorities ordered preventive evacuations of El Porvenir and Las Lajitas late on Monday.
- Authorities declared an 'orange alert' and stepped up monitoring on Tuesday.
- Officials warned the flows could travel further if activity intensifies.
- Ash cloud dispersal could affect areas up to 100 km (62 miles) west and northwest of the volcano.
Guatemala's Fuego volcano has entered a more intense eruptive phase, leading to the declaration of an orange alert by authorities. The volcano is currently spewing ash and sending pyroclastic flows down its slopes, prompting the evacuation of two communities: El Porvenir and Las Lajitas.
The eruption has resulted in pyroclastic flows—fast-moving mixtures of volcanic gas, ash, and rock—descending five ravines, according to disaster management officials. Authorities have warned that these flows could travel further if the volcanic activity escalates, with ash cloud dispersal potentially affecting areas up to 100 km (62 miles) west and northwest of the volcano.
This recent activity follows a major eruption in 2018, which buried an entire community and resulted in the deaths of more than 200 people. The current situation has raised concerns among local residents and officials alike, as they monitor the volcano closely for any further developments.
As the situation unfolds, authorities are prioritizing the safety of residents in the affected areas, emphasizing the need for preparedness in the face of natural disasters.
“Authorities ordered evacuations in El Porvenir and Las Lajitas, both in San Juan Alotenango, after the eruption sent pyroclastic flows down five ravines. Officials warned the flows could travel further if activity intensifies, and ash dispersal could reach areas up to 100 km west and northwest.”
