Guatemala’s Volcan de Fuego, which means “Volcano of Fire” in Spanish, has erupted near the colonial city of Antigua, causing widespread devastation. Ash and gases have covered large areas of ground, with layers of ash knee-deep in places. The eruption was visible from space, with satellite footage showing the ash cloud as a massive dark gray mass.
The sudden eruption killed dozens, erased hillside communities, and destroyed farmland. Hot gases, rock, and ash raced down the volcano in a fast-moving pyroclastic flow, which can travel at hundreds of kilometers per hour. The villages were right on the foothills of the mountain, making it difficult to escape. The pyroclastic flow destroyed nearly everything in its path.
The Fuego volcano is one of Central America’s most active. Officials said more eruptions could be on the way. Authorities urged residents living near the volcano to evacuate immediately. Residents in the surrounding areas were told to be on alert for mudslides containing volcanic material.
The eruption has affected 1.7 million people, according to CONRED, the Guatemalan disaster relief agency. More than 3,100 people have been evacuated. Guatemala’s National Institute of Forensic Sciences says that 17 people who died have been identified. Most of the victims were from the city of Hunapu in Escuintla state.
Some ash reached the capital of Guatemala City about 25 miles away. La Aurora International Airport in the capital was shut due to the black smoke and ash in the sky. Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales asked people to stay calm and to work together during the disaster. He said, “We would also like to ask for your patience because we need to ensure, not only the security of our rescue workers, but the integrity of those people who may still be alive.”
