The Popocatepetl volcano has increased its activity, which led the authorities to activate phase 3 of the yellow alert. The eruption of the volcano caused the temporary closure of Mexico City’s airports. Nearby towns are advised to avoid leaving home. The Hermanos Serdán airfield in Puebla was also affected until noon.
Popocatepetl is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is located near the Mexican capital. Its constant expulsion of ash has led Civil Protection to raise the alert level from phase 2 to phase 3 of the yellow alert. At this stage, people are advised to avoid outdoor activities. Although the city’s airports have returned to normal, the Hermanos Serdán airfield remained closed due to volcanic activity until noon.
On Saturday, the intense activity of Popocatepetl generated a cloud of ash that forced the closure of Mexico City’s airports. From early in the morning, all flights were suspended, causing chaos at the airport. Although activity resumed after ash cleaning around 10 a.m., the presence of ash poses a hazard to aircraft engines.
Laura Velázquez, director of the National Civil Protection Commission, announced the change of alert level from yellow phase 2 to yellow phase 3 based on the evaluation of the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Popocatépetl volcano. The volcano’s activity includes the fall of incandescent fragments, destruction of lava domes and mudflows, as well as explosions. Although it is not considered an unprecedented activity, the population is urged to take precautions.
According to volcanologists, Popocatepetl follows a pattern of eruptive activity that repeats approximately every 70 years. After its last phase of activity between 1919 and 1927, the volcano entered a period of rest until it was reactivated in 1993, followed by explosions in 1994. No evacuations are expected for Sunday, but people in areas near the volcano are advised to stay in their homes and take protective measures, such as covering their nose and mouth, cleaning eyes and throat with plain water, wearing goggles and closing doors and windows.