Guatemala's Volcano of Fire Erupts Forcing Hundreds to Evacuate

Guatemala’s Volcano of Fire erupted overnight, prompting the evacuation of nearly 300 families and placing 30,000 others at risk. The 12,300-foot volcano, one of Central America’s most active, spewed gas and ash high into the sky, leading to school closures and the shutdown of a key road.

Authorities warn that the biggest threat comes from lahars—a deadly mix of ash, rock, mud, and debris that can bury entire towns. The eruption brought back painful memories of 2018 when a similar event killed 194 people and left 234 missing.

Isaac García, a resident of El Porvenir, evacuated with his family early Monday. “We were a little worried because a few years ago the volcano became active,” García said, recalling the past tragedy as ash fell around him. The family is now in a shelter in San Juan Alotenango, 33 miles from the capital.

Guatemala's disaster agency reports that volcanic activity is moderate but could intensify. With communities on edge, the coming days will be crucial for those in the danger zone.