Popocatepetl Volcano Eruption Continues [Video]
The Popocatepetl Volcano eruption continues, spewing more than 40 exhalations in the last 24 hours. The eruption has caused numerous flight delays, and residents of Mexico City are dealing with layers of fallen ash.
The volcano has shown increased activity over the last week, prompting a yellow alert from officials. The Popocatepetl Volcano has remained active for nearly 20 years. However, recent levels of activity are causing concern.
As reported by Yahoo News, residents in Mexico City have experienced only minor issues with settling ash. Luckily, winds have carried most of the ash away from the city.
While damage has been minimal, the Environmental Ministry has cautioned residents to protect water supplies from the falling ash. Additionally, residents are encouraged to wear face masks when leaving their homes.
A mile-high plume of smoke, followed by molten rock, led to the cancellation of over 40 flights last week, including six US airlines.
As reported by Volcano Discovery, the Popocatepetl Volcano is one of the most active in the entire country. The volcano was recorded as dormant for 50 years before returning to active status in 1994.
Historically, Popocatepetl caused massive destruction. Magnificent eruptions reportedly wiped out ancient settlements and buried pyramids. Numerous eruptions were recorded in Aztec codices.
The Popocatepetl Volcano is nearly 18,000 feet tall, and is located around 43 miles outside Mexico City. The name Popocatepetl was chosen by the Aztecs, and means “smoking mountain.”
Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation as close to 50,000 people live in the 24 cities surrounding the volcano. There is concern that a major explosion could send molten lava and ash into populated areas.
Despite the ongoing threat, nobody has been injured and no major destruction has been reported.
As the Popocatepetl Volcano eruption continues, authorities and residents are taking precautions to prevent tragedy. While the volcano may be dangerous, it has provided photographers and videographers with some amazing footage.
**Live Popocatepetl Cam: Click
[Image via Flickr]
