On 4 May, Fuego volcano, located on the borders of Chimaltenango, Escuintla, and Sacatepéquez Departments in central-western Guatemala, erupted, causing concern among residents in the area. The National Institute for Seismology, Vulcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology of Guatemala (INSIVUMEH) reported that the ash column reached over 5,000 meters above sea level, moving more than 35 kilometers in a west-southwest direction.

The eruption resulted in ashfall in several nearby communities, including Panimache I, Morelia, El Porvenir, Finca Paloverde, Finca Asunción, and Finca Santa Sofía, according to INSIVUMEH. The National Coordination for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) is conducting emergency operations and carrying out preventive evacuations in the municipality of San Pedro Yepocapa, Chimaltenango, Panimaché I and II villages, El Porvenir, and Morelia.

However, the good news is that the activity of the volcano is now weakening, as registered by INSIVUMEH. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of the residents in the affected areas. The public is advised to stay alert and follow the guidelines provided by the authorities to avoid any untoward incidents.

In the past, Fuego volcano has erupted several times, causing damage to the surrounding areas. The authorities have set up a contingency plan to deal with any such eventualities and to ensure the safety of the residents.