Guatemalan Authorities Monitor Fuego Volcano as Eruption Activity Decreases but Mudflow Risks Persist
Guatemala's Fuego volcano, one of Central America's most active, recently erupted, prompting the evacuation of approximately 1,700 residents from 18 communities. The eruption, which began on Monday, led to red alerts, highway closures, and the suspension of classes in three departments. Although volcanic activity has decreased, the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) warns that heavy rainfall could trigger dangerous volcanic mudflows, known as lahars. Some evacuees have returned home, but authorities continue to advise caution and adherence to evacuation instructions. The Fuego volcano, a stratovolcano with an elevation of 3,768 meters, is located near Guatemala's capital and has a history of deadly eruptions, including one in 2018 that killed hundreds.