WATCH: Puebla, Mexico covered in ash from Popocatépetl volcano from strong winds in the city
Rainfall and strong winds in Puebla, Mexico caused the ash from the Popocatépetl volcano to rise. Here’s how the residents experienced it.
Some communities around the Popocatépetl volcano have experienced some light rain and intense wind, which has affected residents as the strong gusts have caused the volcanic ash on the ground to rise. The ash had fallen about five days ago due to the ongoing activity generated in the volcano, which had been going on for several weeks and intensified over the weekend.
Several social media users shared videos where the strong winds can be seen lifting the volcanic ash and spreading it around the town. In some clips, you can see people running for cover after having been in a market.
Measures to protect yourself from volcanic ash:
- Avoid doing outdoor activities
- Protect your eyes, nose and mouth if you do have to go outside
- Close doors and windows
- Seal the cracks and vents in your home/buildings with damp cloths to limit the entry of ash inside
- Dust the ash with feather dusters so it doesn’t scratch surfaces
- Cover water tanks and other deposits so that they are not contaminated
- Cover appliances, equipment and cars so they don’t get damaged or scratched
- Avoid driving as the ash reduces visibility and makes the pavement slippery
- Children, elderly people, and those with respiratory diseases should avoid contact with ash
- If you have pets, make sure that the water and food they consume are not contaminated