Volcanoes are a geological structure, through which magma composed of lava and gases emerges.. In Mexico we have at least two thousand volcanoesand mostly inactive, the Popocatépetl is part of the 46 active and high-risk volcanoesOthers are: Volcán de Fuego in Colima, Ceboruco in Nayarit, Pico de Orizaba in Veracruz and Chichón in Chiapas.
Let us remember that the Popocatépetl volcano is located between the limits of the state of Mexico and Puebla.
It restarted its volcanic activity in 1994, and since then the Authorities have reported these risks: ash fall, ballistic projectiles, volcanic gases, pyroclastic flows, avalanches, lava flows, and mudflows.
The probability of eruption is low without being zero, the magnitude of events could be greater at any time, that is why there is a series of instruments that record their activity on a daily basis.
The Ministry of the Interior estimates that more than 70% of the population lives near a volcano, which is a risk, the main consequence would be a lack of water, followed by ash that could cause landslides, blockages in the drainage and sewage system. The third serious consequence can be the area forest firesand that is where the population closest to the volcano is at risk.
Residents are not afraid of Popocatépetl
How many people would be exposed to an eruption of Popocatépetl? The most affected would be inhabitants of the State of Mexico, Puebla, Morelos, Tlaxcala and Mexico City with the fall of ash, lava flows and avalanches.
In its 25 kilometers around the volcano, there are more than 380,000 people.
What to do in case of fall of volcanic ash? Cover yourself with a scarf or mask, clean eyes and throat with pure water. Immediately close the windows and stay inside the house as much as possible. Cover water tanks, cisterns and especially food.