Guatemala's Fuego Volcano Eruption Prompts Evacuation of 1,700 Residents
A significant eruption of Guatemala's Fuego Volcano has led to the evacuation of at least 1,700 residents from nearby areas. The volcano, known for being the most active in Central America, began its eruptive phase on Monday morning, intensifying overnight with lava flows and large columns of gas and ash. The National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (Conred) has declared a red alert in the departments of Sacatepéquez, Chimaltenango, and Escuintla, affecting 1.6 million people. The eruption has resulted in mudflows, incandescent rocks, and ashfall, prompting authorities to urge residents to wear masks and protect their water and food supplies. Despite the heightened alert, operations at Guatemala City's international airport remain unaffected.