As part of the daily monitoring carried out by National Center for Disaster Prevention (Cenapred) and the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Popocatépetl —colloquially known as “Don Goyo”— continues to be classified in Volcanic Alert Level Yellow Phase 2This phase involves an activity considered intermediate, but sufficient to pose risks due to the emission of ash, fragments and mudflows in case of heavy rains.
Recent activity of Popocatépetl: 12 exhalations and ash emission
According to the most recent report from Cenapred, during the last day Popocatépetl It recorded 12 low-intensity exhalationsThese emissions have been accompanied primarily by water vapor and other volcanic gasesin addition to occasional ash expulsions that can be carried by the wind to different nearby towns.
During the morning, as well as at the time of the report, a light and constant emission of water vapor and gases with a predominantly east-northeast direction. This type of volcanic plume, although not always visible to the naked eye at a long distance, is an indicator of internal volcanic activity and can cause light ash fall in locations situated downwind.
The current ranking in Yellow Phase 2 This suggests that the volcano may exhibit recurrent local seismicity related to the internal movement of magma, continuous gas emissions, exhalations with small amounts of ash and the ejection of incandescent fragments in the crater area. Although this is not a scenario of an immediate major eruption, it does imply a level of risk that requires constant caution from the population and those traveling through the region.
Authorities emphasize that, although the activity is described as "low intensity", the presence of frequent exhalations and ash It can affect air quality, visibility, and the condition of infrastructure, vehicles, and crops. Therefore, Civil Protection maintains a series of specific recommendations to minimize short-term effects, especially in urban and rural areas near the volcano.
What does Yellow Phase 2 mean for the population
The Volcanic Alert System in Yellow Phase 2 This indicates that Popocatépetl is in a stage of increased activity, but still within a level considered intermediate. In practical terms, this means that we can expect sporadic ash emissions, constant presence of a vapor plume and the possibility of light falling material in communities located around the colossus.
Among the phenomena associated with this phase are the frequent local volcanic seismicitySmall explosions that can launch incandescent fragments in the vicinity of the crater, and exhalations with varying ash content. All of this creates a scenario in which the volcano remains active, so it is not the time to relax or approach the danger zone, even if the activity does not appear spectacular at first glance.
Authorities emphasize that the exclusion zone established around Popocatépetl is 12 kilometers from the craterEntering this zone poses a high risk, as any sudden explosion could surprise hikers, mountaineers, or onlookers with falling ballistic fragments. incandescent rocks and projectiles capable of causing serious injury or death.
Likewise, in the event of heavy rains on the slopes of the volcano, the danger of ashfall increases. mud and debris flows (lahars) that descend through the ravines. For this reason, it is recommended to stay away from the bottoms of these natural drainage areas, even if the rain is not heavy in the towns, since the water may come from the upper parts of the volcanic massif.
The population residing near the volcanic region, as well as those who regularly travel on roads surrounding Popocatépetl, should be informed about the protocols for action in the event of changes in the Traffic LightPhase changes may involve additional restrictions, suspension of outdoor activities, or adjustments to transport routes, so following official guidelines is essential to avoid unnecessary risks.
How Popocatépetl is monitored: seismographs, cameras and gas analysis
The monitoring of Popocatépetl is carried out through a comprehensive monitoring system Coordinated by Cenapred in collaboration with UNAM, this device combines different technologies that allow real-time monitoring of the volcano's activity, with the aim of detecting significant changes that could anticipate an escalation in the level of danger.
First, the network of seismic instruments Installed near the volcano, the system continuously records tectonic movements and internal vibrations associated with magma dynamics beneath the surface. Analyzing the frequency and intensity of these volcanic earthquakes provides clues about potential changes in internal pressure and the ascent of magmatic material, anticipating scenarios in which the probability of eruptions may increase.
In addition to seismology, the following are used visual and thermal surveillance cameras These cameras are used to observe surface activity. They allow scientists to identify emissions of gases, ash, and incandescent material, as well as variations in the temperature of the crater and its surroundings. Thanks to these images, specialists can assess whether lava is present near the surface or if the pattern of exhalations is changing significantly.
Another key component of monitoring is the analysis of the volcanic gasesUsing spectrometers and other specialized equipment, emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and other chemical compounds released during magmatic activity are measured. A sudden increase in the concentration of these gases is usually linked to a greater contribution of magma towards surface levelsThis aspect is taken very seriously when assessing possible future scenarios.
This set of data—seismic, visual, thermal, and chemical—is continuously processed at volcanic monitoring centers, where teams of specialists analyze trends and patterns. The aim is to... issue timely warnings to the Civil Protection authorities and the population, reducing the probability that an eventual intensification of activity will take the communities near Popocatépetl by surprise.
Recommendations in case of volcanic ashfall
In the presence of volcanic ash in the airCivil protection agencies have established a series of guidelines to reduce the effects on health and the environment. Ash can irritate the respiratory system, eyes, and skin, and can also damage homes, vehicles, infrastructure, and crops if not handled properly.
For the general population, it is advised cover nose and mouth Use a damp cloth or face mask when you must go outside while ash is in the air. It is also recommended to rinse your eyes and throat with clean water to avoid irritation, and to stay indoors as much as possible, especially if you are at risk. respiratory problems, children or elderly people.
Regarding eye protection, it is suggested to use glasses frames and avoid contact lenses, as fine ash particles can accumulate between the eye and the lens, causing discomfort and even injury. For vehicles, authorities recommend not rubbing the ash onto the bodywork or attempting to dry wash it, but Remove it with water and carefully so as not to scratch the paint or damage the windshield.
The management of ash accumulated on streets, roofs, and patios should preferably be done by dry sweepingDeposit the collected material in bags or containers and prevent it from entering the drainage system. If ash is allowed to mix with water and flow into the sewers, it can cause blockages and damage to infrastructure. In gardens and orchards, it is recommended water the plants gently before attempting to remove the ash, thus reducing the impact on vegetation.
It is also important to protect the food and waterStorage tanks should be covered to prevent ash contamination, and pet and farm animal food should be kept protected. Finally, it is emphasized that children and the elderly should be kept away from environments with high ash concentrations, and that close monitoring should be maintained. Civil Protection indications Regarding the suspension of outdoor activities and the use of masks or additional protective equipment when necessary.
A call to stay away from the crater and avoid mountaineering in the area
Given the current activity of Popocatépetl and the maintenance of the Yellow Phase 2 alert level, both Cenapred and experts in volcanology and mountaineering have been clear: It is not safe to climb the volcano nor approach the crater. The 12-kilometer exclusion zone is not an optional recommendation, but a safety measure based on the possibility of sudden explosions.
Researchers from the Institute of Geophysics at UNAM, who have been studying "Don Goyo" for decades, emphasize that the volcano's current behavior suggests a permanent risk situation for anyone attempting high-altitude activities on its slopes or nearby areas. Even experienced mountaineers have acknowledged that, given the current situation, the wisest course of action is search for other destinations for their practices as long as this level of activity is maintained.
Mountaineering instructors and associations have also warned about the existence of excursion and tour offers who promise ascents of Popocatépetl despite official restrictions. In these cases, they emphasize that, in addition to the obvious physical danger, there could be attempts at fraud against those who hire these types of services, since access should be limited for security reasons.
From the field of mountain rescue, it is emphasized that Rescue teams cannot risk their lives to rescue people who have knowingly ignored the warnings. The combination of ash, gases, potential explosions, and unstable terrain makes the crater area a very hostile environment, where any incident can quickly turn into a tragedy.
Therefore, citizens are encouraged to adopt a responsible attitude: although the image of the volcano may be striking and generate curiosity, the priority must be preserve physical integrity and avoid putting emergency and rescue teams at risk. Recreational and sporting activities can be directed towards other mountains and natural parks that are not subject to the same level of volcanic risk.
Official information and contact channels in case of emergencies
In a context of volcanic activity like the current one, federal authorities emphasize the importance of Do not spread or believe rumors that circulate on social media or messaging apps. Misinformation can generate unnecessary alarm or, conversely, cause some people to underestimate the real risk associated with Popocatépetl.
The National Coordination of Civil Protection, together with Cenapred, publishes periodic updates on the state of the volcano and the Volcanic Alert System through official channels on the internet and social mediaThese include the institutional website of Cenapred (www.gob.mx/cenapred) and the verified account of Federal Civil Protection (@CNPC_MX on the social network X, formerly Twitter), where technical reports, recommendations and relevant notices for the population are shared.
To report emergencies related to volcanic activity To request assistance in situations arising from ashfall, mudflows, or impacts on nearby communities, Cenapred and Civil Protection services provide the public with specific telephone lines. These include the number 800-713-4147, complemented by the general emergency service 911, which coordinates response with the corresponding security and rescue agencies.
The population of areas near Popocatépetl, as well as those who may be indirectly affected by the ashfall, should maintain a constant monitoring of official statementsEspecially when changes in wind direction, forecasts of heavy rain, or variations in the volcano's seismic activity are announced. Staying informed with reliable sources is one of the main tools for reducing vulnerability to these types of natural phenomena.
In short, the recent series of 12 exhalations recorded at PopocatépetlThis, along with the emission of gases and ash in a Yellow Alert Phase 2 scenario, reinforces the need to combine rigorous scientific monitoring with civic responsibility. Respecting the safety perimeter, following recommendations in case of ashfall, and relying exclusively on information from the authorities allows us to coexist with an active volcano like this one. “Don Goyo” minimizing risks to the population and nearby infrastructure.
