Dangerous Volcanoes That Could Erupt At Any Time

Popocatépetl, considered to be the most dangerous volcano in Mexico, has erupted over 30 times since A.D. 1345. Located in central Mexico and measuring over 17,000 feet above sea level, the name of the volcano translates to "Smoking Hill" in Nahuatl.

Smithsonian Institute writes that Popocatépetl's current eruption period has been going on since January 2005, leading to ash clouds, broken houses, falling ash, and deaths in and around Mexico City. The ash gets so bad that the airport in Mexico City has had to close as a result. But although these eruptions are dangerous and disruptive, they're comparatively small. According to the United States Geological Survey, Popocatépetl is believed to have its worst eruptions once every 1,000-2,000 years. The last massive eruption of Popocatépetl was around A.D. 800, so it's hopefully not due for another one for a while.

As of May 25, 2023, Popocatépetl has been erupting for a week, and the Mexican government has sent in up to 7,000 troops to help clean the ash and to assist in the event of an evacuation. Some 40 towns are considered to be in a state of emergency, and over 100,000 students have had their classes canceled as a result.

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