A powerful eruption from Guatemala’s Fuego volcano has forced nearly 1,000 people to leave their homes. The volcano sent lava, ash, and rocks into the air. Authorities acted fast to keep people safe.
Panic as the Eruption Begins
The eruption started on Sunday. People living near the volcano felt the ground shake. Loud explosions came from the mountain. Fuego is only 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Guatemala City.
Many people still remember the deadly eruption in 2018. That disaster killed 215 people. Many others went missing. As the volcano roared again, fear spread.
“We heard the rumblings, then a strong explosion. We pray that the volcano calms down soon,” said Manuel Cobox. He and his family left their home to escape the danger.
Officials evacuated about 900 people from El Porvenir and Las Lajitas. Guatemala’s disaster agency, Conred, provided buses to transport them. Many evacuees found shelter in a town hall.
Officials warned that nearly 30,000 people could be at risk. If the eruption gets worse, more evacuations may happen.
Government Takes Safety Steps
Guatemala is on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” This area has many active volcanoes. It also has frequent earthquakes. Because of this, officials acted fast.
The government closed schools in the region. They also shut down a major highway. This road connects southern Guatemala to Antigua, a popular tourist spot.
Officials issued an emergency alert. They prepared rescue teams in case conditions got worse.
Fear Returns After 2018 Tragedy
For many, this eruption brought back painful memories. In 2018, Fuego erupted violently. Pyroclastic flows—a deadly mix of hot ash and gas—swept through villages.
Hundreds of people died. Many homes were buried under thick layers of ash.
“We’re afraid because so many died last time,” said Amanda Santos, a housekeeper.
The sight of thick ash in the sky made people anxious. The sound of sirens added to their fear.
Scientists Watch the Volcano
Volcanologists are closely watching the volcano. The Volcanology Institute reported that ash had spread 50 kilometers west. This created risks for air travel.
Planes must be careful when flying in the area. Thick ash can damage engines and make flying dangerous.
Experts say the biggest risk is pyroclastic flows. These deadly clouds of ash and gas can move fast. They can destroy everything in their path.
A History of Eruptions
Fuego has erupted many times before. In 2023, an eruption forced 1,200 people to leave their homes.
Each time, the volcano reminds Guatemala of its power.
People living near Fuego must always be ready. They know they might need to leave at any moment.
What Happens Next?
For now, the situation remains tense. Officials are working to keep people safe. More evacuations could happen soon.
The people of Guatemala hope this eruption does not become another disaster. But they also know that Fuego will erupt again, reminding the world of nature’s unpredictable power.
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