On June 3, 2018, the Volcán de Fuego in southern Guatemala erupted, leaving ruin in its wake. Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes, four of which are active. The Volcán de Fuego- ( Fire Volcano in English) is one of them. In fact, it is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is only 27 miles outside of Guatemala City. There is said to be over 50,000 people living near the base of the volcano.
See an update from Raleigh news station CBS 17 with Executive Director Andrew Herrera.
There have been sixty-nine deaths so far. In addition, nearly three hundred people are believed to be hurt. Many people are missing. Thousands of families are now without a home. Several children are among the dead. The bad weather and blocked roadways have complicated the recovery. According to CNN, “Entire homes have been buried in debris.” Nonetheless, rescuers are bravely baring the hot ash to return survivors to their loved ones.” To learn about the specifics of this story, click here:
A Turbulent Past
Sadly, Guatemala has a long history of natural disasters outside of volcanic eruptions. Due to its placement between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Guatemala is a prime target for hurricanes. These tropical storms often bring thousands of deaths. Deaths occur either from the storm or later from vast flooding and mudslides. The most recent being Tropical Storm Agatha in 2010. Guatemala’s layout has also lent itself to many earthquakes.
A Volcano’s Unexpected Impact
Impact Global Health Alliance Global prides itself on committing to projects in remote and forgotten places to ensure that the underserved get the care and service they deserve. In the last year alone, Impact Global Health Alliance has reached over 100,000 people with lifesaving health services. We were lucky that the eruption did not directly affect any of our projects. However, it has slowed travel for one of our work teams. Fayetteville Academy has had their trip pushed two days, a minor inconvenience in comparison. Our work teams are vital to the outstanding work that our organization provides for the communities of Guatemala.
Lending a Helping Hand
Right now, we are doing everything we can to provide resources to families in distress in Guatemala. While where we work is not affected by the Volcano, you can still help families in Guatemala who have limited access to health. Help us provide education and sustainable changes in rural communities today. You can make a contribution to our efforts on our donation page. Also, if you want to find out more about the amazing work that Impact Global Health Alliance Global does to serve Guatemala and other communities worldwide, please read more here on our website.
