Fuego Volcano eruption. Photo: Shutetrstoc Guatemala's Fuego Volcano continues to erupt, with authorities warning of ongoing ash emissions, lava flows, and dangerous pyroclastic flows as emergency teams remain deployed around affected communities.
Guatemala's emergency authorities have issued an Institutional Orange Alert and a Departmental Red Alert for the departments of Sacatepéquez, Chimaltenango, and Escuintla as volcanic activity at Fuego Volcano, located 35km from the capital, Guatemala City, continues, with response and monitoring operations remaining in place.
According to a Special Volcanological Bulletin issued by Guatemala's National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH), the volcano remains in an active eruptive phase, producing constant emissions of gas, volcanic ash, and lava fountains from its crater.
The agency also reported that pyroclastic density currents (pyroclastic flows) continue descending through the Ceniza and Seca ravines, posing a significant danger near the volcano.
Authorities warn that volcanic ash could continue drifting west and northwest for up to 120 kilometers, potentially affecting nearby communities and creating disruptions for aviation.
A recent statement issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation says that, currently, La Aurora International Airport "is operating normally", with the activity of the Volcán de Fuego not affecting flights as of now.
However, the directorate added that, according to the scientific body, "the volcano continues to expel ash into the atmosphere, and the dispersion of this material may continue at heights of up to 22,966 feet (7,000 meters) and travel west and northwest, at distances of up to 120 kilometers."
The DGAC, following recommendations from INSIVUMEH, has updated its Volcanic Ash Report, urging maximum caution for pilots flying from 7,000 feet to 25,000 feet altitude, up to approximately 175 kilometers to the west, northwest, and southwest of the volcano.
"The DGAC reiterates its commitment to operational safety and will continue coordinating with the relevant technical entities to ensure up-to-date information. It also calls on the aviation sector to comply with the precautionary measures issued. "
Guatemala's National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) announced that 21 members of its Strategic Intervention Team (EIE) have been deployed to communities in Escuintla, Sacatepéquez, and Chimaltenango.
The teams are monitoring volcanic hazards, assessing risk conditions, and coordinating emergency response efforts with local authorities.
"As part of the response to the eruptive phase of the Fuego volcano", said CONRED in a statement, its system "maintains inter-institutional shelters to house families evacuated from communities near the volcanic complex", with 1,522 people currently sheltered.
CONRED has urged residents and visitors to:
-Stay away from ravines and other danger zones around the volcano.
-Cover water and food supplies to prevent ash contamination.
-Wear a mask or damp cloth to protect against volcanic ash.
-Keep a 72-hour emergency kit ready.
-Follow instructions from local authorities.
-Stay informed through official channels.
-Be prepared to self-evacuate if conditions worsen.
Authorities also reminded the public that emergencies can be reported through Guatemala's national emergency number 119.
The Government of Canada updated its travel advisory for Guatemala on August 4, adding information about the ongoing eruption.
Travelers are advised to monitor official updates from Guatemalan authorities and check with airlines before traveling if volcanic activity continues.