Jerry Jackson A powerful eruption from Guatemala‘s Fuego volcano has forced authorities to evacuate nearly a thousand people, as lava, ash, and rocks spewed from the volcano, sparking panic in nearby communities. The eruption, which took place on Sunday, created a sense of fear among residents, many of whom rushed to seek safety in temporary shelters.
Families Flee as Volcano Erupts Near Guatemala City
The eruption occurred just 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Guatemala City, triggering widespread concern. Many residents, still haunted by the deadly eruption in 2018, scrambled to escape the area. Manuel Cobox, a local resident, described the scene: “We heard the rumbling, then a massive explosion. We trust that the volcano will calm down soon.”
The country’s disaster response agency, Conred, confirmed that approximately 900 people from the communities of El Porvenir and Las Lajitas had been relocated to safety. Authorities have also warned that nearly 30,000 people living in the surrounding areas could be at risk and may need to evacuate if the situation worsens.
Government Takes Action to Ensure Safety
Guatemala, situated in the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is no stranger to volcanic activity and earthquakes. The eruption of Fuego in 2018 killed 215 people and left many more missing, leaving deep scars in the country. The recent eruption has reignited those fears.
“The sirens reminded me of that disaster. So many people died,” said Amanda Santos, a housekeeper who was evacuated with her family. In response, the government has suspended schools and closed a major road linking southern Guatemala to Antigua, a popular tourist destination. An emergency alert has been issued to coordinate the response and ensure the safety of the population.
Monitoring Volcano Activity and Hazards
Scientists are carefully monitoring Fuego’s ongoing activity, particularly the pyroclastic flows — fast-moving clouds of hot ash, gas, and debris — that are descending from the volcano. The Volcanology Institute has issued warnings to air traffic due to the ash, which has spread up to 50 kilometers west of the crater.
In 2023, a similar eruption forced the evacuation of 1,200 people, and while the situation is still developing, authorities remain on high alert. Fuego’s activity is being closely tracked, and precautions are being taken to prevent further danger to residents and visitors.
Ongoing Efforts and Preparedness
As the eruption continues, authorities are focused on ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities and minimizing potential damage. Evacuations are ongoing, and shelters have been set up for displaced families. The government is urging residents to stay alert and follow official guidance.
As of now, there have been no reports of casualties, but officials continue to monitor the situation closely, preparing for any possible escalation. Fuego remains one of the most active volcanoes in Central America, and authorities are working tirelessly to manage the risks posed by this latest eruption.
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