The Popocatépetl Volcano crosses a period of sustained activity with daily counts ranging from dozens of exhalations and several hours of tremor. Currently, the Volcanic Alert Traffic Light It remains in Yellow Phase 2In recent days, a persistent fumarole and, remarkably, the summit appeared snowy in the middle of summer.
Authorities insist on the importance of maintaining the 12-kilometer exclusion radius, avoid spreading hearsay and pay attention only to official information. Monitoring confirms emissions of steam, gases y light ash that move with the wind in different directions.
Review of the most recent activity
El August 6th, XNUMX, were registered 38 exhalations and approximately 1.030 minutes de tremor of low amplitude, accompanied by a continuous plume moving towards the west-southwest. The day August 7th, XNUMX, were reported 55 exhalations y 580 minutes of tremor with characteristics of high frequency y harmonic, with constant emissions towards the west-northwest.
In another report, it was documented 46 exhalations y 648 minutes of tremor, also of high frequency y harmonic, in conditions of partial cloudiness that made visibility of the volcano difficult at times. In addition, 17 exhalations y 754 minutes of tremor, evidencing a pattern of low to moderate intensity.
These records correspond to a activity characterized by low-intensity exhalations accompanied by water vapor, gases y light ash, without this implying changes in the alert level.
Traffic lights and planned scenarios
El Volcanic Alert Traffic Light continues in Yellow Phase 2, what requires constant vigilance and the willingness to sudden episodes typical of an active volcano with an open vent. Possible scenarios include:
- Minor or moderate explosions that expel incandescent material within the restricted perimeter.
- Variable amplitude tremor, associated with the release of gases and ash.
- Light to moderate ashfall in nearby areas and, sometimes, in more remote locations.
- Lahars due to the interaction of accumulated ash with rain, which can descend through ravines and gullies.
- Pyroclastic flows short-range bombs that, while respecting the safety zone, should not affect populated areas.
meteorology, summer snow and emissions
El August 8th, XNUMX, a ` was observedlarge fumarole` and the top of the volcano appeared snow coveredThis phenomenon, although it seems typical of winter, is explained by the seasonal rains and low temperatures at that altitude.
El wind can move in the direction of the southwest, affecting areas such as Atlixco, areas of Morelos, sectors of Guerrero and the Estado de México. The cloudiness sometimes occludes the crater, although seismic signals from tremor are still present.
Current behavior indicates a scenario of intermittent emissions of steam and ash, with meteorological variations that can intensify the plume or favor the deposition of fine particles to leeward.
Recommendations and official channels
Authorities insist that you should not climb the volcano. Keep the 12 km exclusion radius It is essential to avoid ballistic fragments and other dangerous phenomena near the crater.
In case of ash fall, it is advisable avoid outdoor activities, close doors and windows, cover water tanks and protect eyes, nose and mouthIn case of heavy rain, stay away from ravines and channels due to the risk of mud and debris.
For reliable information, consult the Cenapred and the CNPC. In volcanic emergencies, the following telephone numbers are available: 800-713-4147 y 911. Also, avoid booking unauthorized tours or climbs to prevent scams and accidents.
Science and surveillance
From the Institute of Geophysics of UNAM, led by Marco Calò, a was developed 3d model from the interior of the volcano, which functions as a advanced radiography of its structure.
The network of 18 seismic stations, installed since 2019, along with the use of Artificial Intelligence, allows you to analyze in hours what previously took months. This system, powered by Karina Bernal, classifies signals and distinguishes between rock break y passage of gases in magma.
Fieldwork includes high mountain expeditions to maintain the equipment, carried out under demanding conditions. They are complemented by contributions such as seismic tomography de Leonarda Isabel Esquivel Mendiola, which helps map the volcanic system.
This scientific breakthrough aims to save lifes: have one precise vision of ducts and chambers helps to improve the alerts and the decisions of evacuationThe next step in the research seeks to implement 4D tomography to study changes over time.
El Popocatepetl, with 5.452 m high, it is one of the largest volcanoes Mexico's assets. From 1994, it is forbidden to ascend for reasons of to maximise security and your enjoyment.Among the most notable episodes are the eruptions of December 2000, with mass evacuations, the explosion of the December 25th 2005 who raised a column of ash approximately 3 km away and expelled washed, in addition to the exhalations and explosions of 2011-2012 and in 2013 with incandescent fragments projected several meters.
For mountaineering, the specialists of the UNAM They advise searching alternatives during the current phase and advise against unauthorized tours, as unnecessary exposure endangers both visitors and rescue teams.
The situation of the volcano remains stabilized within the current alert: different reports reflect between 17 and 55 exhalations daily and up to 1.030 minutes of tremor. The presence of seasonal snow on the summit and ash emissions to leeward continue to be relevant factors for risk management, supported by reinforced technical surveillance and compliance with the security measures, which allows for better risk management and provides reliable information to the population.