The Popocatepetl volcano has recently gained attention due to a volcanotectonic earthquake that has caused a decrease in its activity, leaving many people puzzled. As magma moves through the earth’s crust to the surface, it breaks the surrounding rocks, generating volcanic earthquakes. These earthquakes are a key sign that a volcano is active.
Volcanic earthquakes can cause cracks, soil deformations, and damage to artificial structures. However, they are typically smaller than earthquakes caused by non-volcanic sources. Volcano-Tectonic earthquakes, on the other hand, are caused by the sliding of a fault near a volcano. The volcanoes are often found in areas of weakness in the earth’s crust, and the mass of the volcano itself adds to the regional tension.
It is essential to note that a volcanotectonic earthquake does not necessarily indicate that a volcano will erupt. Most of these earthquakes have nothing to do with the volcano’s magmatic system but occur in response to regional tension exerted in an area of weak faults. In the case of Popocatepetl, the recent earthquake was of low intensity, and there are no signs of increased activity.
According to the National Disaster Prevention Center (Cenapred) and the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), the volcano has registered low activity after the volcanic earthquake. The recent report counted 114 low-intensity exhalations accompanied by water vapor, volcanic gases, and light amounts of ash. During the monitoring period, 125 minutes of tremor were detected, including 62 minutes of high-frequency and 63 minutes of harmonic-type tremors.
Additionally, a magnitude 1.6 volcanotectonic earthquake was recorded, reflecting the internal dynamism of the volcano. These manifestations show that the 5,000-meter-high volcano remains active, and its surveillance is vital to understanding its behavior in the coming months.
Mexico is a country with numerous volcanoes, and Popocatepetl is one of the most active. To maintain regional security, Cenapred has 24-hour monitoring systems using cameras strategically placed on the volcano’s flanks. These images allow for real-time observation of the volcano’s activity and enable timely decision-making. However, Popocatepetl is not the only active volcano in Mexico, as the country has at least 46 active volcanoes, with six considered high-risk by Cenapred.
Although Popocatepetl has decreased activity due to the recent volcanotectonic earthquake, it is crucial not to be complacent. Strategies include a new satellite nano-system that can investigate the volcano and provide more precise and accurate alert signs. This reaffirms the need for constant monitoring and an effective preventive strategy to guarantee the safety of nearby communities and areas affected by the fall of ash.