Guatemala: Activity increases at Volcán de Fuego November 2 /update 1

Event

The Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) reported increased volcanic activity at the Volcán de Fuego on Friday, November 2. Weak explosions were recorded throughout the day along with a cloud of ash that reached 4800 m (15,750 ft) into the air. Ash also fell on the nearby villages of Sangre de Cristo, Morelia, Santa Sofia, and San Pedro Yepocapa. No evacuation orders have been issued as of Saturday, November 3, but INSIVUMEH has asked the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) to issue an alert. Further volcanic activity cannot be ruled out at the Volcán de Fuego 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.