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Natural Disaster Alert – U. S. Embassy Guatemala City, Guatemala – (February 19, 2021)
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February 19, 2021

Message for U.S. CitizensLocation: Guatemala

Event: Volcanic eruptions

The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) reports continued high activity at Fuego and Pacaya volcanoes. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) notes volcanic activity, while elevated, is decreasing.  However, high levels of ash continue to disperse from Fuego throughout Sacatepéquez Department and Guatemala City.

The U.S. Embassy has advised U.S. government personnel based in Antigua to protect their airway and use HEPA filters if available.  The Embassy has also discussed the possibility of temporarily relocating affected personnel away from the area.  Embassy operations are otherwise normal, and we continue to closely monitor all bulletins issued by INSIVUMEH and CONRED (National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction).

Visit CONRED and INSIVUMEH websites for updated weather and hazard information.

Actions to Take:

CONRED advises citizens to:

  • Use masks to protect airways
  • Clean roofs as ash builds up
  • Avoid outdoor activities due to ash
  • Cover storage tanks that carry drinking water and food
  • Follow precautionary measures issued by local authorities
  • Review household evacuation plan and ensure 72 hour evacuation bags for household members are ready
  • If necessary, evacuate to the closest shelter in your community

In addition, the U.S. embassy recommends U.S. citizens in the area to:

  • Wear masks (N95 ideally) when outdoors
  • Close windows and use air filters if available when indoors
  • Consider temporary relocation from affected areas if experiencing negative respiratory symptoms due to prolonged exposure to volcanic ash.
  • Review your personal security plans
  • Monitor local news for updates
  • For specific details on weather alerts, refer to http://insivumeh.gob.gt/ and https://conred.gob.gt/site/index.php

Assistance:

U.S. Embassy Guatemala City

https://gt.usembassy.gov

Tel. (502) 2326-4000

Amcitsguatemala@state.gov

State Department – Consular Affairs

888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444

Guatemala Country Information and Travel Advisory Page

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