Overview
- The volcano entered a renewed, intense eruptive phase Tuesday with sustained explosions, lava fountains, ash and repeated pyroclastic flows that descended several ravines.
- INSIVUMEH reported ash and gas columns between about 5,000 and more than 7,000 meters high and said ash plumes could travel 100–130 kilometers westward, posing hazards to air traffic and coastal areas.
- CONRED declared an alerta anaranjada nationwide and later issued localized alerta roja/state-of-emergency measures for Sacatepéquez, Chimaltenango and Escuintla while carrying out preventive evacuations and opening shelters.
- Authorities suspended classes, closed the Ruta Nacional 14, restricted access to the Acatenango–Fuego park and advised residents to protect water and food supplies and use masks because of ash fall.
- No fatalities have been reported so far, but officials say pyroclastic density currents are the main near-term threat and urge residents to follow evacuation orders and keep a 72-hour emergency kit ready.