Puebla Schools Shift to Remote Learning Amidst Popocatépetl Volcano Activity

Puebla, Mexico (PVDN) – Due to the significant ash fall resulting from the activity of the Popocatépetl volcano, the Puebla government has moved to suspend in-person classes, opting for remote education in the Izta-Popo region.

Governor Sergio Salomón Céspedes Peregrina contemplated this decision in response to the ash fallout from Puebla’s mighty volcano. Following a consultation with his cabinet and local municipal leaders in San Andrés Calpan, he embarked on a tour around the volcano, subsequently affirming the move towards remote education in the region.

“We convened a meeting with all the municipal leaders of Izta-Popo to examine the evacuation routes and to determine the necessary preventive measures,” he stated. “We’ve concluded that the best course of action is to revert to remote learning, reminiscent of the pandemic-era strategy in these schools.”

The decision will be announced officially soon in a statement. Currently, the volcano’s activity remains within “normal” limits for Phase 2, maintaining a Yellow Phase status on the risk traffic light, as the governor noted.

He added that there is ongoing coordination with government agencies at all levels, highlighting that the state Civil Protection is actively generating the required conditions. “Health, Ministry of Public Education, Civil Protection, Interior – all key areas are holding regular meetings. We’ll be alert to provide updates throughout the day,” he assured.

These actions are primarily precautionary, aiming to be prepared for any eventual changes in the volcanic activity of the Popocatépetl, a longstanding symbol of Puebla.

The governor also hinted at plans to establish shelters. “We hope it doesn’t come to that. But we need to create health-based preventive measures, even if their effects seem minor. We have to be extremely vigilant,” he emphasized.

The Puebla government reported that within the last 24 hours, the Popocatépetl volcano recorded three exhalations, emitting water vapor, gases, and ash, including incandescent material. As a preventive measure, they have recommended the use of face masks, especially in specific municipalities.

Institutions like the Meritorious Autonomous University of Puebla (BUAP) have already taken measures, mandating the use of face masks within their premises at the Atlixco and Izúcar de Matamoros units.

The state’s Undersecretary of the Interior, Andrés Villegas Mendoza, estimated a 72-hour timeframe to evacuate nearby communities if a red phase alert is issued. He explained that this is due to the precautionary measures and coordination between authorities. But he emphasized, “We’re still in a medium-level risk phase.”

Commencing May 18, 2023, remote classes will be implemented in eleven municipalities due to the health implications of the ash fall. Meanwhile, five municipalities will continue face-to-face classes, though outdoor activities are discouraged, and the use of face masks is recommended.

The municipalities where virtual classes will commence are Atlixco, Calpan, Huaquechula, Huejotzingo, Nealtican, San Diego Tochimiltzingo, San Gregorio Atzompa, San Jerónimo Tecuanipan, San Nicolás de los Ranchos, Santa Isabel Cholula, and Teopatlán.

In contrast, face-to-face classes will persist in Puebla, San Andrés Cholula, San Pedro Cholula, Cuautlancingo, and Ocoyucan. However, these areas will maintain strict safety measures, discouraging outdoor activities and endorsing the use of face masks.

Governor Peregrina emphasized that while there’s no imminent danger, these measures are crucial for citizens’ health and safety. He explained, “These steps are preventive in nature, aiming to preserve the wellbeing of our citizens. The health sector is prepared to handle any potential issues, but we pray that won’t be necessary.”

The Puebla government remains on high alert, monitoring the situation around the clock. In the last 24 hours, Popocatépetl volcano had three exhalations, each emitting water vapor, gases, ash, and glowing fragments. Given this, the state administration highly encourages the use of face masks, particularly in municipalities most affected by the ash fall.

Institutions such as the Meritorious Autonomous University of Puebla (BUAP) have adopted similar preventive measures, enforcing the mandatory use of face masks within their campuses for the Atlixco and Izúcar de Matamoros units.

Andrés Villegas Mendoza, the Undersecretary of the Interior of Puebla, stated that evacuating communities near the volcano would require around 72 hours if the situation escalates to a red phase alert. However, he underscored that currently, the volcano’s activity is still at a moderate level. “We hope it doesn’t escalate to a red light phase, which would necessitate evacuation. Let’s remain calm. We’re still at a yellow light phase 3, which is a pre-evacuation stage,” he explained.

In preparation, four shelters, three schools, and a sports unit in San Pedro Cholula and Huejotzingo are being organized. Evacuation, if required, would proceed via ten routes. With these measures in place, Puebla’s government hopes to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all its residents, even in the face of potential volcanic activity.



Trending News on PVDN

  • Two More Puerto Vallarta Beaches Are Awarded Blue FlagsTwo More Puerto Vallarta Beaches Are Awarded Blue Flags Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - In the upcoming 2023-2024 season, Puerto Vallarta is set to host six beaches awarded with the Blue Flag accreditation, an esteemed international recognition for high environmental and quality standards. The Blue Flag committee has reconfirmed the status for four previously certified beaches while conferring this prestigious title to two new beaches…
  • Tactical Groups Are Added to the Streets and Beaches of Puerto VallartaTactical Groups Are Added to the Streets and Beaches of Puerto Vallarta Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - As a component of the safety strategies initiated at the Citizen Security Police Station, members from the Tactical Operations Group (GOT) have been bolstering street patrols all over Puerto Vallarta. Following directives from Commissioner Rigoberto Flores Parra and Mayor Luis Alberto Michel Rodríguez, these officers ensure a visible and protective presence…
  • Popocatépetl Volcano Resumes Activity; Authorities Maintain Alert StatusPopocatépetl Volcano Resumes Activity; Authorities Maintain Alert Status PUERTO VALLARTA (PVDN) - After a period of relative calm last week, Mexico's Popocatépetl volcano resumed minor activity on Friday night and through Saturday night, as reported by the National Civil Protection Coordination (CNPC). This comes following significant explosions last weekend that put nearby communities on high alert. The resumed activity was characterized by minor…
  • Puerto Vallarta Set to Celebrate 105th Anniversary as Municipality and 55th as a City with Grand FestivitiesPuerto Vallarta Set to Celebrate 105th Anniversary as Municipality and 55th as a City with Grand Festivities PUERTO VALLARTA - The coastal paradise of Puerto Vallarta is poised to celebrate two landmark anniversaries: the 105th anniversary of its recognition as a municipality and the 55th anniversary of its elevation to city status, with a grand commemoration on May 31, 2023. The celebrations have been meticulously planned by the municipal government led by…
  • Mothers Searching For Their Missing Children Uncover Presumed Clandesant Grave in Puerto VallartaMothers Searching For Their Missing Children Uncover Presumed Clandesant Grave in Puerto Vallarta PUERTO VALLARTA (PVDN) - A team of mothers seeking their missing children made a chilling discovery on the outskirts of Puerto Vallarta Saturday afternoon: a skeleton, fragments of bones, and several indications pointing towards a potential site of illegal body disposal. The area of discovery, located near the road to Viejo el Veladero, close to…
  • American Tourist In Critical Condition in Puerto Vallarta After Wave Breaks His NeckAmerican Tourist In Critical Condition in Puerto Vallarta After Wave Breaks His Neck Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - "Experiencing your sibling in critical care, confessing your love to him, anticipating the worst... it's a nightmare no one should have to endure," shared Adam Griffis. Adam's younger brother, Evan, is struggling for survival in a medical facility located in Puerto Vallarta. The 30-year-old experienced a freak accident while swimming last…
  • Recent Protests Disrupt 40% of Puerto Vallarta’s EconomyRecent Protests Disrupt 40% of Puerto Vallarta’s Economy Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - Tourism, a critical sector of Puerto Vallarta's economy, has been severely affected by protests, suffering both reputational damage and direct harm to visitors. Alejandro Torres Magaña, General Manager of the Puerto Vallarta Hotel and Motel Association, cited missed flights and hotel delays as significant issues.
  • Volcanic eruptions in Mexico and the dangers of fetishizing natural disastersVolcanic eruptions in Mexico and the dangers of fetishizing natural disasters Ash from the volcano has been falling heavily for a few weeks now, but Sunday was much worse. Nevertheless, many people still had to work outside all day, despite the hazards. The fish and vegetable street vendors were working, a woman was pacing up and down my street selling flower bouquets, the pizza and taco…
  • Puerto Vallarta News Brief with Felipe Alvarez for May 26, 2023Puerto Vallarta News Brief with Felipe Alvarez for May 26, 2023 Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - The Puerto Vallarta News Brief covers the top trending stories of the week on Vallarta Daily News and is hosted by Felipe Alvarez.
  • Mexico's Vacation Rental Boom is in Full Swing and Puerto Vallarta Isn't Left OutMexico’s Vacation Rental Boom is in Full Swing and Puerto Vallarta Isn’t Left Out Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - The vacation rental industry in Mexico is currently thriving, marking an unparalleled period of success. From January to March 2023, INEGI recorded an impressive influx of nearly 18.8 million international visitors. This figure represents an increase of 3.87 million visitors or 25.9% when compared to the corresponding period in 2022. During…

Compare Listings

Title Price Status Type Area Purpose Bedrooms Bathrooms