Fuego guatemala explosion

Guatemala's Fuego Volcano is one of Central America's most active, producing frequent explosive eruptions and deadly pyroclastic flows.

About this subject

Fuego Volcano, located about 16 km from Antigua, Guatemala, is a stratovolcano rising to 3,763 meters. It is part of the Central American Volcanic Arc, formed by the subduction of the Cocos Plate under the Caribbean Plate. It has been in continuous eruption since 1999, with Strombolian to Vulcanian activity. The June 3, 2018 eruption was one of the deadliest: an explosion generated pyroclastic flows that overwhelmed communities such as San Miguel Los Lotes, killing around 200 people and leaving hundreds missing. The event was compared to the 1902 Mount Pelée eruption. The volcano produces basaltic to andesitic lava and is monitored by INSIVUMEH (National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology). Due to its frequent eruptions, Fuego is one of the most studied volcanoes in the region, providing key data on eruptive behavior in densely populated areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Guatemala's Fuego Volcano located?

It is about 16 km west of Antigua, in the department of Sacatepéquez, Guatemala.

What was the deadliest eruption of Fuego Volcano?

The June 3, 2018 eruption, which produced pyroclastic flows and killed around 200 people.

How is Fuego Volcano monitored?

By INSIVUMEH, using seismographs, cameras, and gas analysis to forecast eruptions.