Mexico raised the alert level for the Popocatepetl volcano on Sunday.yellow step 3“, which is just below the “red” alarm level.
Hundreds of earthquakes have been recorded in the region in the past week, officials said. The volcano is spewing smoke and ash.
parameter The National Center for Disaster Prevention said “Yellow Phase 3” means moderate to moderate explosive eruption activity, light to moderate explosions that may damage rock fragments, and light to moderate ashfall in nearby cities and more distant cities. falls in Expulsion of magma is also possible.
Popocatepetl is located in the states of Morelos, Puebla, and Mexico, approximately 45 miles southwest of Mexico City. About 25 million people live within a 60-mile radius of the volcano.
The National Coordination for Civil Defense (CNPC) advised people in the area to cover their nose and mouth with handkerchiefs or face masks. The department also advised closing windows and staying inside as much as possible.
Popocatepetl volcano spews ash and smoke as seen from Puebla in Mexico’s Puebla state on May 18, 2023.
JOSE CASTANARES/AFP via Getty Images
Civil Defense Coordinator Laura Velazquez said CNPC personnel had gone to Puebla to check evacuation routes and coordinate with local governments.
Some Schools in Puebla And the state of Mexico closed for in-person classes on Monday.
Mexico City’s Benito Juarez International Airport was temporarily closed on Saturday due to volcanic ash. Felipe Angeles Airport north of Mexico City was also briefly closed. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), Volcanic ash contamination on planes “Could cause failure of critical navigational and operational equipment.”
The US Embassy in Mexico also issued an advisory, warning people not to travel within 7.5 miles of the volcano.
According to the USGS, Popocatepetl became active again in 1994 after nearly 70 years of dormancy.
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aliza chason
Aliza Chasson is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBS News.
