Guatemala remains on alert as Fuego volcano activity eases

The Fuego volcano, located in Guatemala between the regions of Escuintla, Chimaltenango, and Sacatepéquez, erupted on Monday, prompting authorities to declare an "orange alert" and evacuate approximately 1,700 people from nearby communities. The evacuees were taken to temporary shelters in Alotenango and Escuintla city. Emergency services urged residents to leave their homes for safety, citing the risk of ash fall and further volcanic activity. In 2018, a violent eruption of the Fuego volcano left hundreds dead. Authorities have raised the alert level to "red" for three municipalities, where about 29,000 people are affected by ashfall. The next 72 hours will be critical, officials say. While the activity at the volcano has gradually decreased on Wednesday, authorities remain on high alert and urge residents to remain cautious.