Guatemala: Volcanic activity ongoing at Volcán de Fuego July 12 /update 1

Event

On Thursday, July 12, explosions and the release of volcanic gas continue to be reported at the Volcán de Fuego. According to local sources, a column of ash was released some 2900 m (9500 ft) into the atmosphere. No evacuation orders have been issued but local authorities remain on alert. Further intensification is possible in the coming days. In the event of a major eruption, flight disruptions are possible at Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport (GUA) - located approximately 40 km (25 mi) northwest of the volcano.

Context

A major eruption occurred at the Volcán de Fuego on June 3. At least 113 people were killed and another 329 remained missing as of July 10. A total of 2 million people were affected in total. Red alerts issued by Guatemala's emergency response agency CONRED remain in place as of July 12 for the three departments that surround the volcano: Chimaltenango, Escuintla, and Sacatepéquez.

The emergency response agency CONRED was heavily criticized for not warning the population of the impending eruption despite receiving warnings from the INSIVUMEH (National Institute for Seismology, Vulcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology).

The Volcán de Fuego, one of the most active volcanoes in Latin America, has been in a state of increased activity since 2015, with some 15 eruptive phases per year. The June 3 eruption was the most intense in more than 40 years. A total of 32 volcanoes are present in Guatemala, including three that show constant signs of activity: Fuego, Pacaya, and Santiaguito.

Advice

Individuals present in Guatemala are advised to avoid the abovementioned areas, 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.