Guatemala’s Fuego volcano eruption triggers urgent evacuations, as ash clouds and lahars threaten nearby communities
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Guatemala’s Fuego volcano, one of the most active volcanoes globally, erupted dramatically on Sunday, prompting authorities to evacuate nearly 300 families so far.
Approximately 30,000 people remain at risk in communities around the volcano, located just 60 kilometres from the capital, Guatemala City.
Dangerous volcanic eruption puts thousands at risk
Local authorities issued evacuation orders following warnings from seismologists, who described the eruption as highly volatile. The current activity at the 3,763-metre-high volcano, locally known as ‘Chi’gag’—which translates from native Cachiquel as ‘the place where the fire is’—is its first significant eruption since June 2023. The previous eruption devastated the region, making residents understandably wary.
El Porvenir resident, García, vividly remembers the devastation of the volcano’s previous eruptions and quickly moved his family to a shelter in San Juan Alotenango. Emergency services are providing support, food, and medical care for evacuees, with shelters rapidly filling up as more residents leave their homes.
Deadly Lahars threaten Guatemala communities amid Fuego volcano eruption
The greatest fear surrounding Fuego’s eruption is the threat of lahars, a lethal mixture of ash, mud, rock, and debris that can swiftly engulf entire communities. Standing at 3,763 metres, Fuego, also known locally as ‘Chi’gag’, has a notorious history of destructive lahars capable of burying villages in mere minutes.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant, as volcanic activity could intensify, leading to further mandatory evacuations. Authorities emphasise the necessity of prompt action to avoid potential fatalities, recalling the catastrophic eruption of June 2023, which resulted in widespread damage and loss of life.
Guatemala emergency services on High alert as Fuego volcano eruption continues
The National Disaster Management Agency continues to monitor the eruption closely, coordinating closely with international volcanic monitoring teams to predict further developments. Citizens living in high-risk zones in Guatemala are strongly advised to follow instructions and evacuate immediately.
