The Volcano of Fire in Guatemala has begun erupting once again, threatening another round of massive damage to Central America. An overnight eruption outside of Guatemala City has seen authorities warn nearby residents to evacuate the area in hopes of avoiding the same results from a previous eruption five months ago. The last explosion took place in June when fast flowing pyroclastic flows roared down the side of the mountain towards nearby communities.
Some smaller towns were completely decimated in the wake of the disaster, and 190 people were killed.
The rapid eruption took communities by surprise and forced thousands to immediately flee to safety.
Nearly 4,000 people were evacuated last night, from areas surrounding the Fuego volcano according to local disaster agency Conred.
Evacuation orders are in effect around the base of the volcano, in the provinces of Escuitla, Chimaltenango and Sacatepequez.
Operations at La Aurora international airport could be disturbed in future, but there are no cancellations as of yet.
Much like in June, Fuego violently let loose hot ash, lava and gas, all of which were incredibly dangerous to nearby life.
Conred officials told reporters a total of 2,000 people have been taken to shelters so far.
The agency also said there have been no immediate reports of injuries.
Juan Pablo Oliva, head of the country’s seismological, volcanic and meteorological institute Insivumeh warned of increased activity in the near future.
Mr Oliva said lava and hot ash expulsion could increase soon, elevating risks to those nearby and accelerating evacuations.
Guatemala is consistently under threat from Fuego, which has erupted a total of five times in 2018.
Fuego is located roughly 19 miles south of Guatemala City, is 3,763 metres tall, and is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America.
Volcanologists have said lava is rising 500 metres above Fuego’s crater, and ash clouds extend one kilometre above the volcano’s summit.
What is the travel advice for Guatemala?
The Government’s Foreign Office, which releases country-specific information in the event of a disaster, is yet to release new information on the current eruption.
However, past advice is still current as of today.
The Foreign Office advises: “The eruption of Fuego volcano in June 2018 damaged the National Route 14, which connects Escuintla and Antigua, Sacatepéquez.
“The road has reopened, but for safety reasons it is vulnerable to closure at short notice, during heavy rain or due to volcanic activity.
“Check with your tour operator and local authorities (PROATUR) before travelling along this route.”