Guatemala’s Fuego Volcano Erupts, Forcing Evacuations

Guatemala’s Fuego volcano erupted, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of residents due to the spread of ash, gas, and lava. The volcano is among the most active in Central America, posing a continuous threat to neighboring communities.

On August 4, 2026, lava and ash were visibly emanating from the volcano’s crater, as captured in photos taken from San Juan Alotenango. Many families from nearby areas were evacuated to a temporary shelter in San Juan Alotenango.

Among the evacuees was a woman from El Porvenir, a village situated on the slopes of the volcano. She carried first aid supplies she received upon arriving at a shelter in Escuintla.

Throughout the day, clouds of ash continued to billow from the crater, while children from El Porvenir were seen playing in the Escuintla shelter, and residents rested in San Juan Alotenango.

Photojournalist Moises Castillo, with over three decades of experience covering Central America for The Associated Press, documented the events surrounding the eruption.