Ash from a nearby volcanic eruption forced the closure of Guatemala City’s international airport yesterday.
La Aurora airport will be shut until at least 2.15om local time today, but this may be subject to change, according to updated Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice.
“If you are due to fly to or from Guatemala City on these dates you should check with your airline before you travel to the airport,” the FCO said.
“Visitors and residents in the vicinity of Guatemala City, Antigua and other areas neighbouring Volcano Fuego should monitor local news channels and follow the advice given by the Guatemalan Meteorological Office.”
At last 25 people are reported to have been killed and hundreds injured as the volcano, about 25 miles south-west of the capital Guatemala City, has been spewing rocks, black smoke and ash into the sky.
About 1.7 million people have been affected by the eruption, according to the Guatemalan government.
The central American country’s National Disaster Management Agency said a river of lava hit the village of El Rodeo, destroying houses and burning people inside.
President Jimmy Morales said a national emergency response had been launched.
“We think that there could be a state of devastation in at least three areas,” President Morales said.
This eruption is the biggest since 1974, according to local reports.
The FCO added: “Visitors and residents should exercise extra caution in areas to the south-east, south-west and due south of the volcano.
“There will an increased risk of fast-moving debris flows in the coming days, particularly following heavy rain.”