Massive ash emissions from Mexico's Popocatépetl volcano disrupt flights

Situated in central Mexico, between the states of Morelos, Puebla, and the State of Mexico, Popocatépetl's eruptions caused significant columns of gray emissions visible from afar.

Reports indicate ash fall in Mexico City, located approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers) southeast of the volcano, according to the National Civil Protection Coordination.

Mexico’s National Center for Disaster Prevention recorded 77 discharges from the volcano and raised the volcanic threat level to two, necessitating precautionary measures and maintaining a safe distance.

Flight operations were affected at Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International Airport (AICM), leading some airlines to cancel flights, as confirmed by the airport authorities.

Despite approximately 25 million people residing within a 60-mile (96-kilometer) radius of the volcano, civil protection authorities reassured that there is currently no immediate risk to the population.

Popocatépetl's activity had been dormant for decades until its eruption in 1994. Recent rumblings have put residents on high alert, with eruptions becoming a regular occurrence.

In 2019, the volcano erupted 14 times in a single night, causing significant disruptions. Last May, a substantial ash emission prompted the cancellation of hundreds of flights at the Mexico City airport. Several states suspended in-person classes and advised residents to prepare for possible evacuations, although volcanic activity eventually subsided. (ILKHA)