In brief
The Fuego stratovolcano in Guatemala erupted on Monday, releasing lava, ash and pyroclastic flows down its southeastern slope. Government agencies issued an orange alert and ordered residents to evacuate at least two villages. Schools and public facilities were closed, and locals were advised to keep windows and doors shut to avoid ash exposure. The volcano sits only 16 km from Antigua and is a popular tourist and hiking destination. The recent eruption follows a devastating 2018 event that killed over 200 people.
The Fuego volcano, one of the most active in the Western Hemisphere, began spewing lava and ash on Monday, sending molten rock high into the air and producing intense pyroclastic flows that trailed down its southeastern slope.
Conred, Guatemala’s disaster management agency, has issued a nationwide orange alert – the second‑highest level – warning residents that further eruptions could exacerbate existing pyroclastic currents and spawn new ash clouds.
The alert advises people to keep windows and doors shut, and schools close to the volcano have cancelled classes until further notice.
Fuego sits just 16 km west of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its colonial architecture, and is frequented by both tourists and hikers. Authorities urge visitors and locals alike to avoid the volcano’s slopes and any areas at risk.
The 2018 eruption of Fuego was deadly, killing more than 200 people trapped in fast‑moving pyroclastic flows that rushed down the Las Lajas ravine. The current eruption has reignited fears of a similar catastrophe, though authorities report no reported casualties so far.
- At least two villages on Fuego’s slopes have been evacuated.
- Conred’s orange alert remains in force across Guatemala.
- Schools and public gathering places in the vicinity have been closed.
- Residents are advised to stay indoors and seal doors/windows.
- Tourists are cautioned to avoid the volcano’s slopes.
