Ongoing Eruptive Activity Confirmed
The Popocatépetl volcano, located in central Mexico, continues its period of eruptive activity, as confirmed by the Centro Nacional de Prevención de Desastres (CENAPRED). Reports from January 20, 2026, indicate sustained volcanic processes, prompting authorities to maintain the current alert level.
Popocatépetl, whose name means 'Smoking Mountain' in Nahuatl, is situated approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of Mexico City, bordering the states of Puebla, Morelos, and Mexico. The volcano has been under close surveillance due to its consistent activity since 1994, following decades of dormancy.
Current Alert Level and Observed Phenomena
The official alert level for Popocatépetl remains at 'Yellow Alert - Phase 2', which is level 4 on a 7-level scale. This status signifies moderate activity and calls for precautionary measures. CENAPRED's monitoring between January 19 and January 20, 2026, detected continued eruption.
Specific observations include:
- Nine low-intensity exhalations accompanied by slight emissions of water vapor and volcanic gases on January 19.
- Four exhalations recorded on January 18.
- A fumarole of water vapor and gas reaching approximately 100 meters in height, observed on January 17.
The Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) Washington also issued a warning on January 20, 2026, regarding a volcanic ash plume that ascended to an estimated 20,000 feet (6100 meters) altitude and was moving northeast. However, subsequent reports from VAAC Washington on January 21 indicated 'NO VA OBS', suggesting fluctuating ash emissions.
Safety Recommendations and Exclusion Zone
In light of the ongoing activity, CENAPRED has reiterated critical safety recommendations for the public. Residents and visitors are strongly urged not to approach the volcano, particularly the crater, due to the inherent danger posed by the expulsion of incandescent fragments.
A strict 12-kilometer exclusion radius from the crater remains in effect. Furthermore, authorities advise caution during periods of heavy rainfall, as there is an increased risk of mudflows and debris flows in ravines surrounding the volcano.
5 Comments
Comandante
It's commendable that the alert level is maintained, providing consistency. However, the mention of mudflow risks during rain suggests there are ongoing environmental vulnerabilities that need continuous public awareness beyond just the immediate crater danger.
Habibi
The detailed observations of exhalations provide a clear picture of current activity. Still, for communities living with this constant threat, understanding the potential progression from Phase 2 and what that would entail for their daily lives would be more helpful than just the current status.
Leonardo
Yellow Alert Phase 2? Sounds like they're downplaying the real danger. This is serious!
Raphael
This volcano has been active for decades. When will they admit it's a bigger threat?
Donatello
The safety recommendations to avoid the crater are absolutely vital, but the article could elaborate more on specific emergency preparedness for residents further out, especially concerning ashfall or mudflows.