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The Popocatépetl has repeatedly emitted ash, steam and gas in recent days
Photo: JOSE CASTANARES / AFP
In view of increased activity, the warning level for the Popocatépetl volcano in Mexico was raised on Sunday. According to the national civil protection, the new warning level is only one step away from the red alert level, in which the population is supposed to be ready for evacuation. This Monday, evacuation routes and the designation of emergency shelters are to be reviewed. About 100 million people live within a radius of 25 kilometers.
Popocatépetl, more than 5400 meters high, is one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico. It is located 85 kilometers southeast of the capital Mexico City. In the past few days, it has repeatedly emitted ash, steam and gas. Due to the ash rain, 900 schools were closed. On Saturday, air traffic was temporarily suspended at two major airports in Mexico City.
bam/dpa