Volcán de Fuego in Guatemala emits ash columns up to 4,800 meters

The Volcán de Fuego, located approximately 45 kilometers southwest of Guatemala City, is experiencing increased activity, including ash columns reaching heights of 4,700 to 4,800 meters above sea level. The National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) and the National Institute of Seismology, Vulcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) report that the volcano is producing between two and seven explosions per hour.

Ash dispersion is moving primarily toward the south and southwest, affecting sectors of the Escuintla department and reaching distances of approximately 60 kilometers. Fine ash fall has been recorded in Panimaché, Morelia, Santa Sofía, La Rochela, and Ceilán. Recent activity has also included tremors, incandescence in the crater, and avalanches of volcanic material in the Seca, Ceniza, and Las Lajas ravines.

Authorities have issued warnings regarding the risk of lahares—flows of mud, rocks, and volcanic sediment—which could be triggered by rainfall in nearby ravines. CONRED recommends that residents in affected areas use masks for protection and follow all official instructions from local authorities.