January 27, 2023, ~ Overflight of Popocatepetl ~ Popocatepetl Volcano, Mexico

Scientific and technical personnel from Cenapred carried out an overflight yesterday, January 27, to observe the morphological conditions of the volcano. Specialized personnel from the Institute of Geophysics of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) also participated with the support of the National Guard to safeguard the lives of the population surrounding the colossus.

It was possible to determine that the dimensions of the inner crater rim have an approximate diameter of 390 to 410 meters, which indicates that there are no significant changes with respect to what was observed in the February 2022 overflight. However, it can be seen that the bottom It is silted up by the remnants of the previous domes and fine material, which contributes to the depth being slightly less, being 160 to 180 meters. It was possible to distinguish the presence of a small dome with an approximate diameter of 30 to 40 meters and a height between 5 and 10 meters, consistent with what was observed in yesterday's satellite images.
Likewise, two gas emission zones were identified on the floor of the internal crater.

Based on the parameters monitored and the information obtained during the overflight, ash emissions and explosions similar to those observed in recent weeks is expected to continue. These scenarios are contemplated in the Yellow Phase 2 level of the Volcanic Alert Traffic Light.

Different variables are used to make a timely diagnosis of volcanic activity, so Cenapred maintains its monitoring 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and issues a daily report on the state of the volcano.

The Government of Mexico is guided by scientific parameters that allow evaluations with the purpose of anticipating, reducing, and controlling the risk; as well as disseminating valuable and timely information to the population.

Cenapred emphatically reiterates the recommendation not to ascend to the volcano's crater whenever there is a possibility of explosions, as has been seen on several occasions in the past, involving the emission of incandescent fragments and in the event of heavy rains, move away from the bottom of ravines due to the danger of mud and debris flows.

[harrynac]

It must be both marvellous and terrifying to be on that plane.