Mexico: Eruptions at Popocatépetl Volcano September 20

Event

Mexico's National Center for Prevention of Disasters (CENAPRED) warned people to avoid the Popocatépetl Volcano (Puebla state) on Thursday, September 20, following multiple low-level eruptions. CENAPRED recorded 11 eruptions throughout Wednesday, September 19, and September 20 along with low-intensity ground tremors. The volcano is also spewing water vapor, gas, and ash clouds that have risen as high as 1500 m (4920 ft). Disaster authorities issued a Yellow Phase 2 warning, indicating that further eruptions of low to intermediate intensity are expected, along with ash fall on nearby towns, pyroclastic flows, and mudslides. A 12 km (7 mi) safety radius has been established around the volcano and traffic restrictions are in place between Santiago Xalitzintla and San Pedro Nexapa (State of Mexico) through Paso de Cortés. No evacuation orders have been issued as of Thursday night (local time).

Advice

Individuals in Puebla state are advised to avoid the affected area, monitor the situation, follow any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and wear respiratory masks and covering clothing to protect skin from ashfall in affected areas.