GUATEMALA / RankWire.AI / – Guatemala has elevated its threat level in three departments due to the ongoing intense eruption of the volcano Fuego, prompting widespread evacuations and disruptions in local communities. The authorities issued red alerts for Chimaltenango, Sacatepéquez, and Escuintla, while an orange alert continues to be in effect nationwide. Nearly 29,000 residents across 18 communities have been affected by ash fall, and emergency services are maintaining evacuation orders in areas close to the volcano.
The eruption, which began on Monday, grew more vigorous as gases, lava, and ash erupted from the crater. Pyroclastic flows descended through several ravines along Fuego’s western and southwestern slopes, reaching distances between five and seven kilometers. These flows, comprising hot gases, ash, and rock, can travel at high speeds. Monitoring teams also observed an ash plume drifting west and northwest, with volcanic material being reported far beyond the immediate hazard zone.
Initial evacuations were launched in communities of El Porvenir and Las Lajitas in San Juan Alotenango, with approximately 250 individuals from around 50 families being evacuated early on. As the eruption persisted, authorities expanded shelter operations to accommodate more residents leaving vulnerable areas. Currently, five shelters are operating with about 1,699 individuals, while three additional sites are prepared to host evacuees. At these facilities, families are provided with food, medical aid, security, and other forms of assistance.
Support Centers Assist Displaced Families
Guatemala’s disaster response agency, CONRED, coordinated the evacuation efforts and provided emergency support alongside local authorities. The agency advised residents to steer clear of ravines, follow official directives, and keep emergency supplies ready. It also recommended covering stored water and food, as ash can cause contamination. Residents in affected zones were instructed to wear masks or damp cloths over their nose and mouth. Emergency personnel remain deployed across the three departments classified under red alert.
According to INSIVUMEH, Guatemala’s volcano and weather institute, the most intense phase of activity included repeated pyroclastic flows in the ravines of Seca, Taniluyá, Ceniza, Las Lajas, and Honda. Continuous emissions of gases, lava, and ash kept seismic activity high. Scientists employ field observers, seismic and infrasound sensors, cameras, and satellite images to monitor the eruption. Ash dispersal has extended to Sololá, Quetzaltenango, Suchitepéquez, Retalhuleu, and San Marcos, beyond the three departments under red alert.
Road Closures and Ashfall Impact Local Areas
During the emergency, National Route 14, a key thoroughfare near the volcano, was shut down. The Education Ministry suspended classes in nearby communities, while road crews monitored access points and travel conditions. La Aurora International Airport continued operations following volcanic ash protocols, according to official reports. Security patrols also safeguarded evacuated neighborhoods, providing protection for homes and support for residents who had left the area. Authorities restricted access to certain zones around the volcano that are vulnerable to eruption activity.
Heavy rainfall has posed an additional hazard, as water can mix with loose volcanic material to form lahars—fast-moving mudflows that carry ash, rocks, and debris through ravines. Officials confirmed that no structural damage has been reported as of the latest update, and mudflows have not reached any villages. Fuego, located approximately 30 kilometers south of Guatemala City, remains one of Central America’s most active volcanoes and has a long history of disruptive eruptions.