Guatemala Volcano: Pray For Those Affected By Fuego’s Eruption

June 7, 2018

The Fuego volcano has became active again, sending hot gas and molten rock streaming down the volcano’s south side and forcing search and rescue efforts to pause. The new activity triggered mass evacuations of the communities close to the volcano.

Now more than 1.7 million people have been affected by Sunday’s eruption, including more than 3,000 evacuated. According to officials, a staggering 200 people are missing and the death toll has now risen to 75. 

15 Compassion projects remain closed. To date there have been no reports of Compassion-sponsored children being directly impacted by the Fuego eruption. 

Please join us in praying urgently for the situation:

• Pray for the 200 people still missing. Lift up the continuing search and rescue efforts.
• Pray for the families who have been evacuated – that they would be kept safe and find secure places to stay.
• Pray for the provision of food and water for those staying in temporary shelters.

June 4, 2018

On June 3 ,Guatemala’s Fuego Volcano erupted southwest of the capital, Guatemala City. The communities of Escuintla, Chimaltenango, and Sacatepequez are in a state of emergency.

The most deadly volcanic eruption to hit Guatemala in decades, the Fuego Volcano erupted for more than 16 hours, burying villages located on its slopes in rocks, ash and mud. Pyroclastic flow (a fast-moving mixture of hot gas and volcanic matter) killed many people in their homes.

According to officials, 62 people have lost their lives as a result of the Fuego volcanic eruption. Dozens more are missing so as rescue efforts continue, the death toll is expected to rise. 

Please join us in praying for all those affected by this disaster. Pray for those who have lost loved ones and livelihoods. Pray for the 3,000 evacuated residents who are living in temporary shelters. 

Has the Fuego Volcano Eruption Impacted Compassion projects?

There are a number of Compassion projects in the areas surrounding the Fuego Volcano. We’re awaiting news from our Guatemalan church partners who are still assessing the impact to children and their families. We will update this post as soon as information is available. We will contact you directly if your sponsored child has been affected. 

Photos of communities affected by the volcanic eruption

Pray for the Fuego Volcano Eruption

• Pray the search and rescue efforts will be successful. Pray for God’s protection over those carrying out the searches. Ask that government officials and emergency workers would be given great wisdom.
• Pray for those who are mourning the loss of family members and friends.
• Pray for God’s provision for the children and families left homeless. There are thousands of people currently living in temporary shelters.
• Lift up Compassion’s church partners and local churches around the Fuego Volcano. Ask that they would be beacons of hope and support during this incredibly difficult time.

Find out more about Compassion’s work in Guatemala>