Santiaguito Volcano continues explosions in Guatemala

The Santiaguito volcano in Guatemala continues to exhibit constant degassing and explosions. According to the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED), gas and ash columns have reached heights of approximately 400 to 800 meters above the Caliente dome, dispersing toward the west and southwest.

Authorities have warned of the potential for pyroclastic density currents—hot mixtures of gas, ash, and rock fragments—to descend the slopes. Additionally, due to rainfall in the vicinity, there is a risk of lahars (volcanic mudflows) moving through riverbeds on the southern flank, specifically mentioning the Nimá I, Tambor, and Cabello de Ángel rivers.

Local authorities have advised the population to respect access restrictions to the volcanic area, avoid staying near ravines, and stay away from riverbeds during lahar activity. The volcano is located in the department of Quetzaltenango and is part of a complex formed by four lava domes.