Once again, the Popocatépetl volcano emitted a strong explosion in the early hours of Saturday, January 28, which caused ash to fall in nearby places. The governor of the state of Puebla, Sergio Salomón, warned about the increase in the activity of the colossus.
Despite the fact that the alert traffic light remains yellow phase 2, he called on the general population to follow the Civil Protection recommendations and not approach more than 12 kilometers from the crater.
According to the information, the fall of ash could be recorded in areas such as San Martín Texmelucan, San Miguel Xoxtla, and Santa Marian Coronango, among others.
To date, the Popocatépetl volcano has been characterized by the formation of lava domes, which generate pressure and subsequent explosions in the colossus.
The National Civil Protection Coordination reported that up to 80 domes have been counted. Over time, lava, rocks, and incandescent fragments have slowly filled the crater.
What are domes?
The domes are usually formed when the lava that flows slowly from the crater or funnel of the volcano forms a kind of semicircle and when it comes into contact with the air it hardens (solidifies), builds up pressure, and does not let the gases out.
When the pressure is high, then an explosion will be generated to break that dome, accompanied by incandescent fragments and ash that will be dispersed on the slopes of Popo.
Then, in this case, a new funnel-shaped crater will form, and again a dome will be created when the lava rises.
Since the beginning of October 2022, Cenapred warned of the presence of more domes, as well as constant exhalations and explosions with incandescent fragments in the surroundings of the so-called “Don Goyo”.
Around October 7 of last year, he announced the formation of a small dome of approximately 60 meters in diameter on the Popocatépetl volcano, located in the depression at the bottom of the main crater.
He assured that the explosions of low to moderate intensity will continue, as well as ash emissions in the surroundings. The governments reiterated their commitment to coordinate efforts with the scientific sector and incorporate greater technological developments to reduce volcanic risks.
In case of ash fall, Civil Protection asked to follow the following recommendations:
-Cover nose and mouth with a dry handkerchief or mask.
-Clean eyes and throat with pure water.
-Use frame lenses and avoid contact lenses to reduce eye irritation
-Close windows or cover them and stay indoors as much as possible
-Avoid the accumulation of ash on roofs and patios
-Cover water containers to avoid contamination
In the last 24 hours, at least 128 exhalations, 249 minutes of tremors, a minor explosion, and a volcanotectonic earthquake have been recorded, which is why the population is urged not to approach the volcano.
In the event that the colossus enters the last phase of the traffic light (red alert), there will be high to extreme explosive activity, the eruptive columns are tens of kilometers high and far-reaching, and intense falls of ash, sand, and volcanic fragments over populations at greater distances, possible partial collapses of the volcanic edifice, pyroclastic flows, and massive debris flows that can reach nearby and intermediate populations, large lahars with devastating effects and serious damage to the environment.
In the last 24 hours, at least 128 exhalations, 249 minutes of tremors, a minor explosion, and a volcanotectonic earthquake have been recorded, which is . . .
