Volcanic Activity

Volcan De Fuego, Guatemala

Volcanic activity is a dynamic and powerful natural phenomenon that showcases the Earth’s geological activity.

One of the places I aspire to witness is Volcan de Fuego in Guatemala.

This stratovolcano is known for its active spouts and occasional splatter lava displays.

night volcano eruption
Image from https://stock.adobe.com/search?k=volcano+eruption+night

What’s Special about Volcan De Fuego? It’s a Stratovolcano

Stratovolcanoes, also known as composite volcanoes, are steep-sided volcanic mountains formed by alternating layers of lava, ash, and volcanic rocks.

They are often associated with explosive eruptions due to the high viscosity of their lava.

One example is the Volcán de Fuego in Guatemala, which is one of Central America’s most active stratovolcanoes.

Volcán de Fuego, translated as the “Volcano of Fire,” has a history of frequent and sometimes violent eruptions.

One of the worst recorded eruptions occurred on June 3, 2018, when a powerful explosion sent pyroclastic flows (hot gas, ash, and volcanic rocks) racing down its slopes.

The eruption claimed more than 190 lives, displaced thousands, and caused widespread devastation in nearby communities.

Observing volcanic activity provides a firsthand glimpse into the planet’s inner workings and serves as a reminder of the continuous processes shaping our dynamic Earth.

See this clip from some hikers who visited the volcano to watch one of its predicted active periods:

Video from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40CQ81ru9tQ