Popocatépetl Volcano Maintains Eruptive Activity, Alert Level Yellow Phase 2

Ongoing Eruptive Activity Reported

Mexico's Popocatépetl Volcano, located approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Mexico City, sustained its eruptive activity from November 30 to December 1, 2025. The volcano, whose name translates to 'smoking mountain' in Aztec, continued to emit plumes of ash, gas, and water vapor during this period.

Alert Level and Public Safety Warnings

The National Center for Disaster Prevention (CENAPRED) confirmed that the volcanic alert level for Popocatépetl remained at 'Yellow Alert - Phase 2'. This is the middle level on a three-color scale, indicating ongoing activity that requires precautionary measures. As a critical safety measure, CENAPRED reiterated its strong recommendation for the public to avoid approaching the volcano, particularly the crater, due to the inherent danger posed by falling incandescent fragments. A 12-kilometer exclusion zone around the crater remains in effect.

Recent Observations and Seismic Data

Reports from December 2, 2025, detailing the volcano's recent behavior, indicated continued emissions. During the 24-hour period leading up to this report, eight exhalations were detected, accompanied by water vapor, volcanic gases, and occasional minor amounts of ash. Additionally, a volcanotectonic earthquake with a calculated magnitude of 1.5 was recorded on December 1st at 23:29 local time. Continuous emissions of water vapor and volcanic gases were observed, with dispersion primarily towards the Northeast.

Historical Context of Popocatépetl

Popocatépetl is recognized as one of North America's most active volcanoes, characterized by frequent ash emissions and explosions. Its history includes at least three major Plinian eruptions since the mid-Holocene, the most recent occurring around 800 CE, which were accompanied by pyroclastic flows and lahars. Frequent historical eruptions have been recorded since Pre-Columbian times, highlighting its persistent activity.