Millions Prepare to Evacuate as Mexico’s Popocatepetl Volcano Spews Large Plumes of Ash

AMECAMECA, MEXICO – MAY 23: Popocatepetl volcano spews incandescent material as seen from Paso de Cortés on May 23, 2023 in Amecameca, Mexico. The second highest volcano in the country increased its activity while Mexican authorities raised the alert to yellow phase 3. Popocatepetl volcano caused the fall of ashes in different municipalities in Puebla, Estado de Mexico and Mexico City. Mexican army has spread forces as a preventive measure while the 3 levels of government are in coordination to observe the activity of the volcano and the situation in the surroundings. (Photo by Cristopher Rogel Blanquet/Getty Images)

Mexico’s Popocatepetl volcano continued to spew plumes of ash and smoke on Friday, May 26, as millions of residents prepared for a possible evacuation, according to local reports.Approximately 25 million people who live within a 60 mile (97 km) radius of the peak have been urged not to approach the volcano as a yellow, phase-three warning remains in place for the eruption.The country’s national defense said it was standing by to issue emergency alerts.Mexico’s National Coordination of Civil Protection said it is possible that ash emissions will reach populations further away than what has already been observed.This footage from the CNPC shows ash and smoke rising from the crater on Thursday, May 25. Credit: National Coordination of Civil Protection via Storyful