Fuego Volcano Erupts, Prompting Evacuations in Guatemala
On March 10, 2025, the Volcano of Fire, known as Fuego, erupted dramatically overnight, sending a substantial plume of ash skyward. In response to the unfolding crisis, authorities evacuated approximately 300 families and issued alerts for another estimated 30,000 individuals residing nearby, emphasizing the potential risks associated with the eruption.
Impact of the Eruption
The eruption led to significant disruption, with schools in the surrounding areas closed and key roads connecting local communities shut down. Fortunately, as of now, there are no reports of casualties. The Guatemalan disaster management agency, Conred, indicated that the volcanic activity included “pyroclastic flows,” a dangerous combination of gases, ash, and rock that can travel rapidly through the landscape.
Evacuations and Risks
According to Claudinne Ugalde, a representative from Conred, “some 30,000 people more or less are at risk in these three (jurisdictions) and we are trying to have them evacuate or self-evacuate.” The greatest threat posed by the volcano stems from lahars, which are destructive flows of volcanic mud and debris that can engulf communities.
Community Response
Residents are taking the warnings seriously, as echoed by Isaac García, a 43-year-old inhabitant of El Porvenir on the volcano’s slopes. He described the urgency of their evacuation, recalling the tragic 2018 eruption that resulted in numerous fatalities. “We were a little worried because a few years ago the volcano became active,” said García, who evacuated with his family to a shelter in San Juan Alotenango.
Volcano Overview
This volcanic activity is particularly notable given Fuego’s status as one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, typically erupting every four to five years. Its last eruption prior to this event occurred in June 2023, leading to the evacuation of over 1,000 residents.
The devastating eruption in 2018 serves as a grim reminder of the potential consequences; it resulted in 194 confirmed deaths and 234 individuals reported missing.
Other Volcanic Threats in Guatemala
In addition to Fuego, Guatemala is home to two other active volcanoes: Santiaguito and Pacaya. All three volcanoes pose continuous challenges to the communities that are situated in their shadows.
