04 Jun 2018 | 08:29 AM UTC
Guatemala: June 3 Volcán de Fuego eruption kills at least 25 /update 2
June 3 eruption of Volcán de Fuego, located near Guatemala City, kills at least 25; rescue operations continue, airport closed June 4
Event
The Volcán de Fuego erupted on the evening of Sunday, June 3 (local time), leaving at least 25 people dead and hundreds injured, notably in the villages of El Rodeo, Alotenango, and San Miguel Los Lotes. The death toll could rise as rescue operations continue. Volcanic ash covered nearby villages as well as the capital Guatemala City, located 40 km (25 mi) to the northeast. More than 3000 people have been evacuated from affected areas and an estimated 1.7 million people have been affected in total by the eruption. Guatemala City’s La Aurora International Airport (GUA) has been closed due to ash fall and is expected to remain closed until at least Monday afternoon.
Context
The volcano - situated on the border between the three southern departments of Chimaltenango, Escuintla, and Sacatepéquez - previously entered an eruptive phrase in January and February 2018. It has been in a state of increased activity since 2015, witnessing around 15 eruptive phases per year. The June 3 eruption was the most intense in more than 40 years.
Advice
Individuals present in Guatemala are advised to confirm flight and other travel reservations, closely monitor the situation, adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and wear respiratory masks and covering clothing to protect skin from ash fall in affected areas.
