Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano released gas, smoke, and ash Monday, prompting education authorities to call off in-person classes in three states.
The move was made a day after the government raised the alert level on the 5,425-meter volcano's activity.
Located about 75 kilometers southeast of Mexico City, a city of nearly nine million people, "El Popo" - as locals call the volcano - had been erupting since last week, which temporarily halted flights at two of Mexico City's airports over the weekend.
According to the latest NOAA report, an ash plume stretches hundreds of miles to the east, all the way to the Bay of Campeche.
Mexican Authorities Prepare for the Worst
While evacuations have not yet been ordered, authorities advised people to prepare to do so while at the same time telling people to stay outside the volcano's 12-kilometer radius around the peak.
Mexican civil defense coordinator Laura Velázquez said the stoplight-based alert level remained yellow but rose to phase 3. Nevertheless, she emphasized that there was "no risk to the population at this time."
Velázquez added that areas surrounding Popocatepetl were preparing evacuation teams and shelters, and local and state officials were inspecting evacuation routes.
Meanwhile, the Mexican Department of Defense said they were prepared to mobilize around 6,500 troops to assist the populace if needed.
For his part, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador told Mexican media Monday morning that he was in contact with federal and local officials about the volcano who constantly monitor it.
Authorities also urge residents living near the volcano to avoid going outdoors as much as possible.
