Authorities have issued a preventive alert for Mexico City due to the possible fall of volcanic ash from Popocatépetl in the coming hours. Civil Protection warns that wind conditions could carry ash toward the capital and neighboring states, urging residents to take precautions.
Popocatépetl Activity and Ash Dispersion
- Date of alert: March 26, 2026
- Cause: Recent emissions from Popocatépetl volcano combined with prevailing winds.
- Forecast: Ash could disperse toward the south and east of Puebla, affecting regions such as Atlixco, Angelópolis, Valle de Serdán, Mixteca, and Sierra Negra.
- Extended risk: Ash may also reach Veracruz, Morelos, and Mexico City, depending on volcanic intensity and wind shifts.
Alert for Mexico City
- Probability: High likelihood of ashfall in all boroughs of CDMX within the next few hours.
- Authorities’ advice: Stay informed through official channels and follow preventive measures.
Health and Safety Recommendations
Civil Protection advises residents to:
- Avoid outdoor activities during ashfall.
- Keep doors and windows closed to reduce indoor contamination.
- Cover water storage containers to prevent pollution.
- Use masks or cloths to protect nose and mouth.
- Seal cracks and gaps with damp cloths to block ash entry.
- Wear protective glasses and clothing if going outside.
Risks and Impacts
- Health: Fine ash particles can cause eye irritation, respiratory problems, and skin discomfort.
- Animals: Pets and livestock should be sheltered, with food and water protected from contamination.
- Agriculture: Ash may hinder photosynthesis in crops, reducing yields.
- Infrastructure: Accumulated ash on rooftops can become heavy when wet, risking structural collapse in light constructions.
Authorities emphasize the importance of monitoring official reports as wind direction may change rapidly, altering affected zones. Residents of Mexico City and nearby states should remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures to safeguard health, property, and animals.
Source: El Economista
