Tourists in Guatemala narrowly escaped death under a hail of scorching rocks near an active volcano

Another attempt to get as close as possible to one of the planet’s most active volcanoes nearly ended in tragedy. In Guatemala, a group of tourists was watching the eruption of Volcán de Fuego when, during a powerful blast, so-called “volcanic bombs” flew into the air — large chunks of molten lava and rock. Several such fragments fell right next to the spectators and landed in the crowd. According to preliminary data, no one was seriously injured, but what happened clearly showed how dangerous such excursions can be.

Video of the incident quickly spread on social media. The footage shows people first filming the eruption on their phones, and then hastily moving away after stones ejected by the volcano begin falling around them.

Fuego, whose name translates as “Fire Volcano,” is located about 16 kilometers from the city of Antigua and is considered one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. Its current phase of activity has lasted for more than two decades: constant emissions of ash, gas and lava have been recorded almost continuously since the late 1990s. Small explosions occur regularly, and at certain times their frequency can reach several times an hour.

It is this constant activity that has made Fuego a popular tourist attraction. Every year, thousands of travelers hike up the neighboring Acatenango volcano, which offers a spectacular view of the eruptions. However, specialists regularly warn that even Fuego’s “ordinary” emissions can pose a deadly danger. During explosions, the volcano ejects not only ash but also scorching rocks that can travel hundreds of meters.

Scientists’ concerns are well founded. In 2018, Fuego caused one of the largest volcanic disasters of the 21st century in Latin America. A powerful eruption then generated pyroclastic flows — scorching clouds of gas, ash and rocks that destroyed several settlements. According to official data, at least 190 people were killed, and hundreds were listed as missing.

Despite the tragic history and regular warnings from the authorities, extreme volcano tourism remains popular. Many travelers try to get as close as possible to the crater for dramatic photos and videos. However, this latest incident became another reminder that on an active volcano, conditions can change in a matter of seconds, and one successful shot can cost a life.