Mexico's most dangerous volcano is 'coming to life' and could force evacuation of millions

The Popocatepetl volcano,named 'smoking mountain' in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec people, is Mexico'ssecond most active volcano. However, when it comes to explosive activity and population threat, it ranks highest in Mexico and North America. Indeed, it is often cited in lists of the most dangerous volcanos in the world.

It is also the second tallest volcano in Mexico, measuring 17,797-feet (5,425-metres) and is located just 45 miles (about 70 kilometres) southeast of Mexico City. The volcano, affectionately known as 'El Popo', has come to life since last week, spewing out clouds of ash.

Increased activity from Popocatepetl volcano

State authorities cancelled in-person classes in schools spanning 40 municipalities in Puebla, five municipalities in the state of Mexico, and seven in Tlaxcala. The classes will run remotely instead.

The eruptions registered on Saturday 20 May were more intense, with the US embassy in Mexico warning that the volcano 'has exhibited increased activity since May 15, registering hundreds of tremors and smoke and ash exhalations'.

The embassy also advised people to not travel within a 7.5 mile radius of the volcano, referring to warnings from local authorities.

Mexico City’s Benito Juarez International airport and the new Felipe Angeles airport both temporarily suspended operations on Saturday for several hours, with some flights also delayed on Monday 22 May. The US embassy in Mexico said:

Air travelers may continue to experience additional flight delays, cancellations, or temporary airport closures with little or no warning.

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3 million people may have to evacuate

On Sunday, the National Civil Protection Coordination (CNPC) raised its volcanic threat level to 'yellow phase 3', which means approximately 3 million people who live in towns and villages next to the volcano must be alert and get ready for a potential evacuation.

The CNPC also warned of increased volcanic activity and ash fall into several nearby towns at high speed. It also advised inhabitants to cover their noses and mouths when outside, close windows, and remain inside as much as possible. Mexico City’s mayor Claudia Sheinbaum said in a tweet on Sunday:

In the case of Mexico City, the risk is ash fall. We are prepared for that scenario and we know what to do. Let’s stay alert.

The volcano has approximately 25 million people living within a 60 mile radius.

Sources used:

Natural History Museum: 'Popocatépetl volcano, Mexico'

AP: 'Volcanic ash from Popocatepetl temporarily shuts down Mexico City airports'

CNN: 'Millions in Mexico warned to prepare for evacuation as Popocatépetl volcano spews ash'

CBS News: 'Alert level raised for Popocatépetl volcano in Mexico'