Guatemala's Volcano de Fuego erupts, forcing mass evacuations

Guatemalan authorities have evacuated at least 282 families as Volcano de Fuego intensified its activity, spewing columns of lava, ash, and rock into the sky. The eruption has raised fears of a potential disaster, prompting emergency response measures.

Fuego volcano erupts as seen from Alotenango, Sacatepequez department, some 65 kilometres southwest Guatemala City on March 10, 2025. (AFP Photo)

Volcanic eruption triggers emergency alert

Situated around 35 kilometers (22 miles) southwest of Guatemala City, the Volcano de Fuego—straddling the Sacatepequez, Escuintla, and Chimaltenango regions—began exhibiting increased activity on Sunday night. A towering column of thick smoke was seen rising into the atmosphere, signaling an imminent crisis.

According to the National Coordinating Agency for Disaster Reduction (Conred), volcanic ash has reached an altitude of 7,000 meters (23,000 feet) above sea level, spreading up to 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest, west, and southwest. As a result, Conred has declared an institutional orange alert, allowing for continuous coordination with local officials to implement precautionary and response strategies.

Evacuees arrive at a shelter after fleeing their village affected by Fuego volcano in Alotenango, a municipality in Sacatepequez department some 65 kilometres southwest of Guatemala City, on March 10, 2025. (AFP Photo)

Thousands at risk as authorities take action

Over 900 people have been evacuated as a preventive measure, while officials warn that an additional 30,000 residents in the region could be at risk. Schools in four municipalities have been closed as authorities monitor the evolving situation.

The Volcano de Fuego is one of Guatemala’s three most active volcanoes among a total of 32. This latest eruption follows a 50-day period of dormancy, with activity resuming over the weekend.

Guatemalan authorities evacuated around a thousand people on Monday after Central America's most active volcano erupted, spewing lava, ash and rocks. (Photo by JOHAN ORDONEZ / AFP) — Fuego volcano erupts as seen from Alotenango, Sacatepequez department, some 65 kilometres southwest Guatemala City on March 10, 2025. (AFP Photo)

A history of deadly eruptions

The volcano’s last catastrophic eruption occurred in June 2018, resulting in the deaths of over 400 people. The latest activity has reignited concerns over the potential for further devastation.

Authorities remain on high alert as evacuation efforts continue, urging residents to follow safety guidelines and remain informed of further developments.