Fire from the mountains: Twin volcanoes erupt in Guatemala
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Mar 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 27
Guatemala, a nation marked by its dynamic geological landscape, is currently experiencing heightened activity from two of its prominent volcanoes: Volcán de Fuego and Volcán Santiaguito.
These developments have prompted evacuations, disrupted daily life, and raised concerns among residents and authorities alike. This is reported by The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology and Conred.
On March 10, 2025, Volcán de Fuego erupted, emitting lava, ash, and rocks. This event led to the evacuation of nearly 300 families from nearby communities. The eruption also resulted in the closure of schools and a key roadway connecting southern regions to the colonial city of Antigua. By March 11, the volcano's activity had subsided, allowing evacuees to return home and schools to reopen.
2018: 200 people killed
In June 2018, Volcán de Fuego experienced one of the deadliest volcanic eruptions in Guatemala’s history. On June 3, 2018, without much warning, the volcano unleashed a powerful eruption that sent superheated pyroclastic flows — fast-moving clouds of gas, ash, and volcanic rock — barreling down its slopes at incredible speed.
Entire villages at the base of the volcano, including San Miguel Los Lotes and El Rodeo, were caught off guard. Many residents had little or no time to evacuate. The hot flows buried homes, roads, and families in seconds, leaving behind a gray wasteland of ash and debris.
The disaster claimed the lives of over 200 people, with many others still listed as missing. More than 1.7 million people were affected by the eruption, and thousands were displaced from their homes. Rescue efforts were hampered by the intense heat, poor visibility, and unstable terrain.
The tragedy exposed gaps in early warning systems and emergency response, leading Guatemala to strengthen its monitoring and evacuation procedures. It remains a painful reminder of how quickly these volcanoes can turn from tourist attractions to life-threatening hazards.
Increased activity at Volcán Santiaguito
Concurrently, Volcán Santiaguito, part of the Santa María volcano complex, has exhibited increased activity. As of March 24, 2025, the volcano has been recording up to six explosions per hour. These explosions have produced gas and ash plumes rising approximately 700 meters above the crater, with ash dispersing westward. Short-range pyroclastic flows have also been observed on the southwestern and northwestern flanks.
The National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) has reported potential ashfall in areas west of the volcanic complex, including San Marcos Palajunoj and San Martín Sacatepéquez. Residents in these regions are advised to take necessary precautions due to the increased volcanic activity.
Understanding Volcán Santiaguito
Volcán Santiaguito is a lava dome complex that has been actively erupting since 1922. Situated within a large crater on the southwestern flank of the Santa María volcano, it has experienced frequent ash explosions, pyroclastic flows, and lava flows over the decades.
Safety measures and travel advisories
Given Guatemala's position along the Pacific «Ring of Fire,» the country is susceptible to seismic and volcanic events. Travelers and residents are encouraged to stay informed about the current status of both Volcán de Fuego and Volcán Santiaguito. Adhering to guidance from local authorities and monitoring updates from CONRED and the National Institute for Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) is essential for safety.
While the recent eruption of Volcán de Fuego has subsided, the ongoing activity at Volcán Santiaguito underscores the importance of vigilance. Conditions can change rapidly, and staying updated is crucial for those in or traveling to affected areas.
Facts about Volcán de Fuego and Volcán Santiaguito
Volcán de Fuego (Volcano of Fire)
Height 3,763 meters (12,346 feet) above sea level
Location Near the city of Antigua, in southern Guatemala
Type Stratovolcano (steep-sided, cone-shaped, explosive eruptions)
Activity One of Central America’s most active volcanoes, with near-constant minor eruptions
Recent eruptions:
2025 (March) Lava flows, ash clouds, and evacuations
2018 (June) Catastrophic eruption killed over 200 people, buried villages
Typical behavior Frequent ash plumes, lava flows, and pyroclastic flows
Risk areas Nearby communities such as El Rodeo, Alotenango, and San Miguel Los Lotes
Volcán Santiaguito
Height Approx. 2,550 meters (8,366 feet)
Location Western Guatemala, near the city of Quetzaltenango
Part of The Santa María volcano complex
Type Lava dome complex
Formed Began erupting in 1922 inside the crater of the 1902 Santa María eruption
Current activity:
As of March 2025 Up to 6 explosions per hour
Emitting ash plumes up to 700 meters high
Producing short-range pyroclastic flows
Hazards Ashfall affecting nearby towns, minor lava flows, dome collapses
Facts and travel advisory notes
Both volcanoes lie along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a tectonically active zone
They are monitored daily by INSIVUMEH (Guatemala’s volcanology institute) and CONRED (disaster response agency)
Travelers should avoid hiking near the craters and always check for updated advisories
Ash plumes can affect air travel and cause respiratory issues for sensitive individuals
