Location: Guatemala
Event: As of Sunday, March 9, Guatemala’s National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH ) volcanic surveillance network is reporting a significant increase in the eruption of the Fuego volcano, which is spewing a mix of ash, rocks, and hot gases. The flows are moderate but are expected to increase. The following municipalities may be affected: Alotenango, Escuintla, Siquinala and San Pedro Yepocapa. The Ministry of Education has suspended classes in these municipalities.
Due to current eruption activity and the elevated danger of injury, access to Acatenango volcano has been suspended, and access to Fuego’s crater and the area called “El Camellon” is forbidden.
At the present time, operations at Guatemala’s La Aurora International Airport are not affected, but the airport could close temporarily due to ash and wind conditions. RN-14 between km 103 to km 118 is closed. U.S. citizens are advised to stay alert, expect travel delays, and monitor local conditions.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid the affected municipalities and follow local guidance on prohibited areas.
- Monitor local media as well as the websites of CONRED (Coordinadora Nacional para la Reducción de Desastres), INSIVUMEH (Instituto Nacional de Sismología, Vulcanología, Meteorología e Hidrología), and PROVIAL () for updated weather, road, and hazard information.
- Monitor news reports regarding air travel and consider verifying planned arrivals and departures with airlines.
- For children, older adults, and persons with respiratory conditions in affected areas, consider reducing exposure to ash by avoiding outdoor activities, using masks, and closing windows and doors. Consult health care providers for specific questions.
- Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
- Cautiously use navigation applications that provide directions as certain detours or alternate routes from main roads and highways can lead to unsafe areas or roads affected by flooding or landslides.
- Prepare an emergency supply kit (ready.gov ).
- Obtain travel insurance to cover unexpected expenses, including health emergencies and evacuations. If a situation requires an evacuation from an overseas location, the U.S. Department of State may work with commercial airlines to ensure that U.S. citizens can depart as safely and efficiently as possible. Under U.S. law, any evacuation costs are your responsibility.
- Organize a kit of essential items in a waterproof container, including: bottled water, any medications taken regularly, non-perishable food, battery powered radio, vital documents – especially passports.
- Additional information on hurricanes and storm preparedness can be found on the Department’s “Crisis and Disaster Abroad: Be Ready ” webpage.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Guatemala City, Guatemala
Website: https://gt.usembassy.gov/
Email: U.S. Citizens Services Navigator
Contact the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs
1-888-407-4747 toll-free from the United States and Canada
1-202-501-4444 from other countries
Visit the Guatemala Country Information and Travel Advisory page
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
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