Second-Highest Alert Level Declared in Guatemala After Eruption of Acatenango Volcano

Conred reported that volcanic ash was falling in at least three departments of the Central American country. The department of Chimaltenango, located on the southwestern flank of the volcano, was particularly affected. Ash rain and a distinct smell of sulfur were also reported in areas surrounding Guatemala City.

The Acatenango is considered one of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala. It lies in the department of Chimaltenango and, together with the neighboring Fuego (Fire Volcano), forms a volcano pair. Both peaks are part of the volcanic chain that runs through Central America. Past eruptions of Fuego have historically caused deadly lahars and pyroclastic flows.

Orange Alert and Protective Measures

According to Conred, the Orange alert means heightened alert readiness: the population in the surrounding area should go to shelters, keep windows and doors closed, and wear protective masks against the volcanic ash. Localities within the potential danger radius were urged to prepare for evacuation or to carry one out immediately.

Authorities also called on people to avoid riverbeds and depressions, as ash and rain can trigger so-called lahars — flows of mud and debris that collect in the valleys below the volcano. Conred announced that it would continue to monitor the situation and would raise the alert level to Red, the highest level, if activity intensified.

Impact on the Population

On social networks, residents shared videos showing dense ash clouds over fields and villages. Footage from the Chimaltenango region also showed roads and rooftops covered with a fine layer of volcanic ash. Air traffic at the La Aurora international airport in Guatemala City continued initially according to initial findings, with Conred reviewing possible disruptions.

The Acatenango volcano is about 3,976 meters high and lies in the central Sierra Madre of Guatemala. According to volcanologists, its most recent major eruptions have occurred repeatedly in recent decades. Authorities pointed out that during an eruption of this magnitude, pyroclastic flows and fast-moving lava flows could occur at any time.

Response by Authorities and Possible Next Steps

Conred set up emergency shelters in schools and community halls in the region. Staff from the disaster management agency and volunteers were dispatched to the affected villages to assist with evacuations and to prepare relief supplies of water, respirator masks, and food.

The government announced that it would continue to assess the situation in the coming hours. If the volcano calms, the alert level could be lowered again. However, if activity increases, a transition to the highest alert level, Red, cannot be ruled out, Conred stated.