More than 350 people have been evacuated from villages near Guatemala’s Fuego volcano after authorities warned that the volcano had entered one of its most intense eruptive phases, sending lava, ash and deadly pyroclastic flows down its slopes.
Guatemala’s disaster management agency ordered precautionary evacuations as volcanic activity intensified, with emergency teams moving residents from communities considered to be at greatest risk.
Lava and Ash Spew From Volcano
According to officials, Volcán de Fuego—one of Central America’s most active volcanoes—began producing powerful explosions that generated thick ash columns, fast-moving lava flows and pyroclastic currents racing down several ravines.
Authorities warned that the volcanic activity could intensify further, posing a significant threat to nearby settlements.
Ash from the eruption spread across surrounding areas, reducing visibility and raising concerns over air quality and possible disruptions to transportation.
Hundreds Evacuated
Emergency responders evacuated more than 350 residents from vulnerable villages located on the volcano’s slopes.
People were transported to temporary shelters as officials continued monitoring the volcano for any signs of escalating activity.
Authorities urged residents living in high-risk areas to remain alert and follow evacuation instructions if conditions worsen.
Emergency Measures Implemented
Guatemala’s disaster management agency activated emergency response protocols, while local authorities coordinated rescue operations and monitored affected communities.
Nearly 1,700 residents near Guatemala's Fuego volcano were moved to shelters after it erupted, prompting a red alert as authorities warned ash and gases could reach nearly 23,000 feet and travel up to 120 km https://t.co/03pejVVt6T pic.twitter.com/wv9J0wNxo1
— Reuters (@Reuters) August 5, 2026
Officials also advised people to avoid areas surrounding the volcano because of the risk of falling ash, volcanic rocks and fast-moving pyroclastic flows.
Roads near the volcano were being closely monitored, and authorities warned that additional evacuations could be ordered if volcanic activity continues to intensify.
One of Central America’s Most Active Volcanoes
Located about 35 kilometres southwest of Guatemala City, Fuego is among the most active volcanoes in the region and experiences frequent eruptions.
The volcano is closely monitored because of its proximity to populated communities and its history of producing dangerous eruptions.
Its devastating 2018 eruption killed more than 200 people and left hundreds missing after pyroclastic flows buried entire villages, making it one of Guatemala’s deadliest natural disasters in recent history.
Authorities Continue Monitoring Situation
Emergency agencies remain on high alert as volcanologists continue tracking seismic activity, lava flows and ash emissions.
Officials have urged residents to rely on official updates and avoid entering restricted zones until volcanic activity subsides.
Authorities said emergency teams remain prepared to carry out further evacuations should conditions deteriorate.