Guatemala Declares Orange Alert as Fuego Volcano Eruption Intensifies

Guatemala has declared a nationwide orange alert after the Fuego volcano, one of Central America's most active volcanoes, erupted violently, forcing evacuations, closing a major highway and disrupting daily life in nearby communities.

The eruption began on Monday morning and intensified throughout the day, prompting the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) to order the preventive evacuation of El Porvenir and the nearby hamlet of Las Lajitas. Around 50 families, or about 250 people, were moved to emergency shelters, while authorities warned that more evacuations could follow if activity increases.

Guatemala's Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) said the volcano had entered its most explosive phase, generating lava fountains 200 to 300 metres high and an ash, gas and volcanic material column rising 4 to 6 kilometres above sea level. Dense ash clouds, lava flows and dangerous pyroclastic flows were seen descending the volcano's slopes. Volcanic ash spread up to 60 kilometres westward, raising concerns over air traffic and affecting several communities.

Authorities suspended classes in nearby towns, closed National Route 14, and urged residents to avoid the volcano and surrounding ravines because of the risk of pyroclastic flows and falling volcanic debris. Emergency teams continue monitoring communities within a 10 kilometre radius, while officials also warned tourists against climbing nearby Acatenango Volcano to watch the eruption after reports emerged of illegal visits despite restrictions.

Located about 35 kilometres southwest of Guatemala City, the 3,763 metre Fuego volcano has a long history of destructive eruptions. Its catastrophic 2018 eruption killed hundreds, left many missing and affected about 1.7 million people. Another eruption in 2025 also prompted preventive evacuations. As of Tuesday, no deaths or injuries have been officially reported, but authorities remain on high alert as volcanic activity continues.