08 Mar 2022 | 02:26 AM UTC
Guatemala: Increased activity reported at Fuego Volcano March 7
Increased activity reported at Fuego Volcano, Guatelmala, March 7. Pyroclastic flows, ashfall, and lava produced. Evacautions ongoing.
Event
The Guatemalan Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (Insivumeh) has reported increased levels of volcanic activity at the Fuego Volcano, located approximately 40 km (25 miles) west-southwest of Guatemala City. An eruption took place the evening of March 7. Observations indicate that the pyroclastic flow is still moving over the Ceniza drainage while two lava flows remain active in the Ceniza and Santa Teresa ravines. Ash continues to fall on the southwestern flank of the volcano, affecting Panimache I and II, Morelia, Santa Sofia, Yucales, El Porvenir, and Sangre de Cristo communities.
Authorities have evacuated around 150 people from Panimache I Town in San Pedro Yepocapa Munucupility, Chimaltenango Department. An evacuation shelter is located at the Sports Center and Municipal Hall of Santa Lucia Cotzumalguapa, Escuintla.
Additional eruptions could cause low-level seismic activity, further lava and pyroclastic flows, ash clouds, and landslides in the surrounding area. The Fuego Volcano will likely continue to emit frequent gas and ash clouds in the coming days.
Transport
Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of significant ashfall, and visibilities could be significantly reduced. In the past, officials have closed portions of National Route 14 near the volcano as a precaution due to the threat of debris flows. Authorities could temporarily suspend flights out of La Aurora International Airport (GUA) if a significant eruption occurs. Such a stoppage is most likely if southwesterly winds occur during the eruption, which could shift the ash cloud over the Guatemala City metropolitan area.
Advice
Avoid the vicinity of the volcano. Follow official instructions. Monitor local media for updates. Confirm regional flights. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near Fuego Volcano. If an eruption occurs, seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry facemasks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.
