Popocatépetl Volcano Maintains 'Yellow Alert - Phase 2' Amid Ongoing Activity

Ongoing Volcanic Activity Reported

Mexico's Popocatépetl volcano, located southeast of Mexico City, continues its period of eruptive activity, with recent reports indicating persistent emissions of gas and vapor. The Centro Nacional de Prevención de Desastres (CENAPRED), in coordination with the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), has been closely monitoring the volcano's behavior.

Between January 22 and 23, 2026, gas and vapor plumes were reported. On January 23, 2026, a M2.4 volcano-tectonic (VT) earthquake was also recorded. The most recent report for January 24, 2026, detailed 24 low-intensity exhalations accompanied by slight emissions of water vapor and volcanic gases. Additionally, 15 minutes of low-amplitude tremor were detected, comprising 8 minutes of high-frequency tremor and 7 minutes of harmonic tremor. A constant emission of volcanic gases dispersing towards the northeast was observed at the time of the report.

'Yellow Alert - Phase 2' Explained

The alert level for Popocatépetl remains at 'Yellow Alert - Phase 2' (Semáforo de Alerta Volcánica en Amarillo Fase 2), which is level 4 on a 7-level scale. This intermediate warning level signifies increased activity and anticipates several potential scenarios, including:

• Minor to moderate explosions.
• Variable amplitude tremor.
• Light to moderate ashfall in nearby communities and potentially more distant cities.
• Expulsion of incandescent fragments within the established 12-kilometer exclusion radius.
• The possibility of lahars (mudflows) in ravines, particularly with expected rainfall, due to accumulated ash.
• Potential for pyroclastic flows that would not reach populated areas.

Safety Recommendations and Public Advisory

Authorities strongly advise the public to adhere to safety protocols and official communications. CENAPRED explicitly urges individuals to 'NOT APPROACH the volcano and especially the crater, due to the danger of falling incandescent fragments.' A 12-kilometer exclusion zone around the crater remains in effect, and residents are reminded to stay away from ravines during heavy rains to avoid potential mudflows.

In the event of ashfall, health authorities recommend several precautions:

• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a mask or cloth.
• Use goggles to protect your eyes.
• Avoid unnecessary travel.

The public is encouraged to rely solely on official information from CENAPRED and the National Civil Protection Coordination, and to disregard rumors.

Historical Context of 'El Popo'

Known affectionately as 'El Popo,' Popocatépetl is one of Mexico's most active volcanoes, with its current eruptive period ongoing since 2005. Its proximity to major population centers, including an estimated 25 million people living within 60 miles, makes its continuous monitoring crucial for public safety.