Guatemala’s Fuego Volcano Erupts Killing 25 And Injuring Hundreds

The volcano which is situated 25 miles south-west from Guatemala City erupted on Sunday spewing rocks, black smoke, and ash into the sky. The lava was red hot in color while the smoke was tossed up to about six miles into the air. Hot flowing lava first hit the village of El Rodeo causing a large degree of destruction to property and life. Several children are among those who lost their lives. The local media have published videos that showed bodies strewn on top of the lava and rescuers attended to people covered in ash.

The Guatemala volcano has erupted for the second time this year. As per local reports, the lava overflowed its banks and it buried El Rodeo village and there’s a possibility that the volcanic lava has damaged the La Libertad village too, however, rescuers are unable to check the situation out there due to dangerous circumstances. According to survivor Consuelo Hernandez, "Not everyone escaped, I think they were buried. We saw the lava was pouring through the corn fields and we ran towards a hill." President Morales stated that there could be destruction in at least three areas. Some of the rescuers who left the scene were even seen weeping.

Citizens are asked to evacuate

The residents who are living near the volcano have been asked to evacuate immediately. More than 3,100 people have been rescued so far. Other citizens residing in the states of Chimaltenango, Sacatepequez, and Escuintla are asked to watch out for volcanic rocks and ash. It’s been raining ash in four of Guatemala's administrative regions and a change in wind direction is said to be responsible for ash falling in various parts of the capital. Ash was seen spread all over the streets and over vehicles as well. Small amounts of ash reached the capital of Guatemala City which resulted in the closure of the international airport.

Officials have advised citizens to wear masks to protect themselves. The Guatemalan military is providing assistance in the establishment of temporary shelters and in clearing ash from the La Aurora airport's runway. Citizens have been warned of lahars and mudslides that contain volcanic material. A total about of 1.7 million people have been affected by the devastating volcanic eruption. At least 15 people have been hospitalized that includes 12 children. Some of the children have suffered severe burns. According to Guatemala's National Institute of Seismology- the eruption has officially ended however it has warned citizens of new eruptions. President Jimmy Morales has declared three days of national mourning, following the natural disaster.