Guatemala Keeps High Alert as Fuego Volcano Eruption Forces 1,700 to Remain in Shelters

Guatemala has maintained a state of high alert after the eruption of the Fuego Volcano forced about 1,700 residents to evacuate their homes. Authorities have raised the danger level to red in three municipalities as heavy rainfall threatens to trigger more destructive mudflows.

According to the country's disaster management agency, evacuations will remain in effect until conditions improve. Officials warned that the next 72 hours are critical, as continuous rain could worsen volcanic mudslides flowing down the mountain.

The volcano erupted on Monday, releasing ash, lava, volcanic gas, and pyroclastic flows, while fresh ash and mud emissions continued into Tuesday. Around 29,000 people have been affected by ashfall in the regions of Sacatepéquez, Escuintla, and Chimaltenango.

Authorities have urged residents to wear face masks and protect water supplies from volcanic ash. Although no homes have been destroyed by mudflows so far, National Route 14 has been closed, and schools in nearby communities have suspended classes as a precaution.

Guatemala lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it one of the world's most volcanically active regions. Fuego Volcano has erupted several times in recent years, with its deadliest eruption occurring in 2018, when nearly 200 people were killed and more than 230 others went missing after villages were buried by volcanic debris.

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