Deadly Volcanic Eruption Covers Guatemala in Ash and Debris

Published 6 Jun 2018, 13:51 BST
Deadly Volcanic Eruption Covers Guatemala in Ash and Debris

The Fuego volcano in Guatemala erupted on June 3, 2018. The hot smoke and ash has killed dozens of residents and injured hundreds more. Plumes of volcanic ash and rocky debris cause dangerous avalanches called pyroclastic flows. With enough rainfall, this debris could form deadly mudslides called lahars. This makes it even more challenging for rescue workers. 

The volcano is 25 miles southwest of Guatemala City and residents are evacuating to avoid the rockfalls and floods.

explore videos

Environment and Conservation1:52

What Made the Ground Split Open in Kenya?

Environment and Conservation0:16

Why Blue Flames Are Now Burning at Kilauea

Environment and Conservation1:23

Rare Tornadoes on Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano

Science and Technology4:43

Volcanoes 101

loading

Explore Nat Geo

  • Animals
  • Environment
  • History & Culture
  • Science
  • Travel
  • Photography
  • Space
  • Adventure
  • Video

About us

Subscribe

  • Magazines
  • Disney+

Follow us

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society. Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved