Guatemala: New eruption of the Fuego Volcano

Yesterday, the Fuego Volcano erupted again and spewed a river of lava down its southern slope. According to the national and international press, in the municipalities, the rescue teams that were still trying to find survivors, and journalists were evacuated from the area. The Institute of Seismology and Volcanology of Guatemala has warned of a new pyroclastic flow of toxic gases and hot debris expelled by the volcano.

Carlos Arriola, an exporter of vegetables from Guatemala said it was difficult to find good products at the moment. "Guatemala is suffering from a shortage of escaroles, romaine lettuce, butter lettuce, oak leaf lettuce, Chinese peas, and other crops. The ashes of the eruption have affected many kilometers and burnt the crops they have fallen on. The ashes of the first explosion affected the regions of Santa Maria Cauque, Patzicia, Milpas Altas, and Chimaltenango, among others."

After yesterday's eruption, the pyroclastic material was stopped by the Achiguate River, which prevented it from descending, Carlos stated. "However, the rescue work has been suspended. It hasn't rained since Sunday, but now the rains are intense. A busy road in the area, route 14, has been cut off temporarily."