Authorities in Guatemala have evacuated around 1,000 residents following a significant eruption of Volcán de Fuego, the most active volcano in Central America.
The eruption occurred on Sunday, prompting emergency evacuations as lava flows and ash clouds posed an increasing threat to nearby communities. Volcán de Fuego, located just 35 kilometers from the capital, Guatemala City, showed heightened volcanic activity, alarming local officials and disaster response teams.
According to Juan Laureano, a spokesperson for Guatemala’s National Coordination for Disaster Reduction (CONRED), approximately 125 families, or about 900 individuals, were safely relocated from the village of El Porvenir to temporary shelters.
Residents of Las Lajitas, another nearby community, were also evacuated as a precautionary measure.
Evacuees were transported by buses, carrying only essential belongings, to municipal buildings that have been converted into emergency shelters.
Government Suspends Schools, Closes Roads
In response to the ongoing volcanic activity, the government has suspended classes in affected regions and closed a major roadway that connects southern Guatemala to the historic city of Antigua—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the country’s most visited tourist destination.
Authorities continue to monitor the volcano’s behavior closely and have urged residents to remain vigilant. Volcán de Fuego is known for its frequent and powerful eruptions, and this latest activity serves as a reminder of the constant risk faced by surrounding communities.
