Mexico on alert as Popocatepetl volcano spews smoke, ash
Incandescent materials, ash and smoke are spewed from the Popocatepetl volcano as seen from the Santiago Xalitzintla community, state of Puebla, Mexico, May 22, 2023. (AFP Photo)
by Anadolu Agency
May 23, 2023 8:54 am


The Mexican government has implemented precautionary measures in response to the recent activity of the Popocatepetl volcano, which emitted smoke and ash over the weekend. These measures include the mobilization of troops and the readiness of civil security personnel, evacuation teams and shelters.

Due to the changes observed in the volcano, the National Center for Disaster Prevention issued a "Yellow Volcanic Alert Phase 3." The change in the alert does not entail evacuations for the moment, but it reflects the increased volcanic activity, which is potentially harmful to nearby inhabitants.

The Popocatepetl volcano lies on the borders of the states of Mexico, Puebla and Morelos.

As of Sunday, 573 explosions from the Popocatepetl volcano had been recorded, 70% of which were minor. However, authorities have said that mild to moderate explosions can be expected and have warned residents of falling fine ash from the volcano.

In addition, aircraft are affected due to the ash, causing the two international airports in Mexico City to cancel flights for the third day in a row. Airlines such as Aeromexico announced the cancellation of 46 flights on Monday.

The Popocatepetl Volcano spews ash and smoke as seen from the Santiago Xalitzintla community, state of Puebla, Mexico, May 22, 2023. (AFP Photo)
A general view showing the active Popocatepetl volcano, in the town of San Pedro Benito Juarez, in Puebla, Mexico, 22 May 2023. (EPA Photo)

Education authorities announced the suspension of classes in the states of Puebla and Tlaxcala, with 40 municipalities shutting down schools in the former.

At his morning press conference, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador announced that the Ministry of Citizen Security and Protection has formed a commission to oversee the installation of shelters and the supervision of roads for rapid evacuations "if needed."

He also said that the Ministry of National Defense has deployed 7,275 troops, with the National Guard carrying out the Emergency Assistance Plan for Society, which seeks to provide shelter, food and security to those affected by the prevailing situation in the state.

The volcano remained active during the early hours of Monday morning, releasing gas, smoke and ash.

"Some people argue that when there are eruptions, it is more soothing than when it is quiet," said Lopez Obrador.

Last Update: May 23, 2023 11:45
Edited By: Mindy Ann Yartaşı