Emergency Response Activated as Fuego Volcano Erupts in Guatemala

On March 9, 2025, Fuego volcano erupted in Guatemala, leading to the evacuation of around 900 people. With an Orange Alert declared, authorities mobilized emergency measures, humanitarian aid, and suspended classes. The eruption resulted in significant ash columns and pyroclastic flows, posing health and safety risks to nearby residents.

On March 9, 2025, Guatemala’s Fuego volcano erupted, prompting an immediate evacuation of nearly 900 individuals. The evacuation order was confirmed by the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) on March 10, affecting 125 families who relocated from El Porvenir in Alotenango. Temporary accommodations were set up at the Alotenango municipal hall to house the evacuees due to safety concerns.

The eruption, which began around 03:00 UTC, came after 49 days of inactivity. The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) reported that the eruption produced incandescent fountains reaching heights of 500 meters, with dense columns of gas and ash dispersing up to 6 kilometers above sea level.

During the eruption’s peak, fast-moving pyroclastic flows descended into various ravines, specifically Las Lajas, El Jute, Seca, and Ceniza, generating explosive sounds heard several kilometers away. An Orange Alert was declared, indicating a high level of danger and necessitating the mobilization of emergency response teams and potential evacuations.

Guatemala’s alert system includes several levels, starting with Green for normal monitoring, followed by Yellow for preparedness, and culminating in Red for mandatory evacuations. Following the Orange Alert declaration, humanitarian aid was initiated by CONRED, alongside local leaders coordinating response strategies.

In light of the eruption, key infrastructure, such as National Route 14, was closed, and classes were suspended in affected municipalities. Reports of ashfall raised health concerns, particularly respiratory hazards and impacts on agriculture. CONRED recommended that residents adhere to official guidelines, avoid ravines, and prepare 72-hour emergency kits due to the ongoing volcanic activity.

The Guatemalan Volcanic Surveillance Observatory (OGVV) has advised air traffic precautions due to potentially widespread ash dispersal. The risk of lahars remains elevated, exacerbated by heavy ash deposits and rainfall, while emergency services remain vigilant as the volcano continues to emit significant pyroclastic flows and ash columns.

Fuego Volcano is one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, typically standing at 3,763 meters. Its most catastrophic eruption occurred on June 3, 2018, claiming 215 lives and affecting various communities strongly, making preparedness an ongoing priority.

The recent eruption of Guatemala’s Fuego volcano has led to significant evacuations and emergency measures due to the imminent danger posed by pyroclastic flows and ashfall. The declaration of an Orange Alert has prompted coordinated responses to protect residents and mitigate risks. Continuous monitoring and adherence to safety protocols are essential as emergency services remain on high alert in anticipation of further volcanic activity.

Original Source: watchers.news