Guatemala: Volcán de Fuego eruption leaves at least six dead June 3 /update 1

Event

Volcán de Fuego erupted on the evening of Sunday, June 3 (local time), leaving at least six people dead and 20 others injured after lava flowed into Rodeo village. Volcanic ash has reportedly covered nearby villages, including San Pedro Yepocapa and Sangre de Cristo; ashfall has also been reported in Guatemala City. Some 100 people have been evacuated from affected areas. Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales has declared that a national emergency response has been mobilized.

La Aurora International Airport (GUA) - serving Guatemala City - was closed on Sunday due to ashfall. Airport officials have said that GUA will be closed at least until 14:15 on Monday, June 4. Further eruptions, evacuations, and transportation disruptions (including flight delays and cancelations) are expected in the coming hours and days.

Context

The volcano - situated 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.

Advice

Individuals present in Guatemala are advised to be prepared for further volcanic activity, adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (i.e. evacuation orders), and wear respiratory masks and covering clothing to protect skin from ashfall in affected areas.

Those planning on traveling to, from, or through GUA are advised to monitor developments to the situation, confirm flight reservations, and contact their airline for more information.