Guatemala: Activity increases at Volcán de Fuego November 6 /update 2

Event

The Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) reported increased volcanic activity at the Volcán de Fuego on Tuesday, November 6. Multiple explosions were recorded throughout the day along with a cloud of ash that reached 4800 m (15,750 ft) into the air. According to local sources, authorities closed portions of National Route 14 near the volcano, leading to significant transportation disruptions. Ash also fell on the nearby villages of Morelia, Panimaché, Sangre de Cristo, and Yepocapa. Further volcanic activity at the Volcán de Fuego and associated transportation disruptions cannot be ruled out over the coming days and weeks.

Context

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 decades, leaving over 150 people dead and more than 250 others missing. 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 monitor developments to 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 ashfall in affected areas.