Mexico City Airports Temporarily Closed Due to Volcanic Ash Eruption from Popocatepetl
Mexico City, the capital of Mexico, is one of the busiest cities in the world, with millions of people traveling in and out of the city every day. However, on the morning of May 7th, 2021, the city’s airports were temporarily closed due to a volcanic ash eruption from Popocatepetl, one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico.
Popocatepetl, also known as “Popo,” is located about 70 kilometers southeast of Mexico City and is one of Mexico’s most famous volcanoes. It has been active since the 14th century and has erupted several times in recent years. The volcano’s activity has been closely monitored by the National Center for Disaster Prevention (CENAPRED), which issues regular updates on its status.
On May 7th, CENAPRED reported that Popocatepetl had erupted, sending a plume of ash and gas into the air. The ash cloud reached an altitude of about 6,500 meters (21,325 feet) and was carried towards Mexico City by the wind. The ashfall was reported in several neighborhoods in the city, including Iztapalapa, Tlahuac, and Xochimilco.
As a result of the eruption, the Mexico City International Airport and the Toluca International Airport were temporarily closed. The closure affected thousands of passengers who were either stranded at the airports or had their flights canceled or delayed. The authorities advised people to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities, especially those with respiratory problems.
The closure of the airports was necessary to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft. Volcanic ash can cause significant damage to aircraft engines and other critical components, leading to accidents. The ash can also affect visibility, making it difficult for pilots to navigate and land safely.
The airports were reopened later in the day after the ash cloud had dissipated, and the authorities had assessed the situation. However, flights were still subject to delays and cancellations due to the backlog caused by the closure.
Popocatepetl’s eruption serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by natural disasters, especially in areas prone to volcanic activity. Mexico is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its high volcanic and seismic activity. The country has several active volcanoes, including Popocatepetl, Colima, and Fuego de Colima.
The Mexican authorities have taken several measures to monitor and mitigate the risks posed by these volcanoes. CENAPRED regularly monitors the activity of these volcanoes and issues alerts and warnings to the public. The authorities have also established evacuation plans and emergency shelters in case of an eruption.
In conclusion, the temporary closure of Mexico City’s airports due to Popocatepetl’s eruption highlights the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of natural disasters. The authorities must continue to monitor and assess the risks posed by volcanoes and other natural hazards to ensure the safety of citizens and visitors. Travelers should also stay informed about the situation and follow the instructions of the authorities during emergencies.
