Guatemala is a country built on volcanoes, set upon fault lines and in the path of tropical storms. To be a local in Guatemala is to endure many of these natural disasters – both big and small – and to be a tourist is to risk experiencing any of these in some way, shape or form, so be prepared!
Shake (Earthquakes)
Earthquakes have a prominent role in Guatemalan history. In 1773, an earthquake hit the old capital, Antigua, so hard and demolished so many of the buildings, city officials decided to move rather than re-build and Guatemala City was created in 1776.
Maybe they didn’t move far enough, because Antigua, Guatemala City and Quetzaltenango are all situated on the Montagua and Chixoy-Polochic fault complex, and experience frequent quakes.
The deadliest quake to ever hit was back in 1976 with the largest strikes hitting near Guatemala city.
It’s not a “show stopper” for travel, but earthquakes do occur, but statistically speaking you’re extremely unlikely to feel anything more than a little tremor.
What can you do?
You can scream and run around like a chicken with your head cut off, or you go under something sturdy with your head covered until the shaking stops. The latter will probably keep you safer in case of an emergency. Stay away from items that may fall over or break, such as large bookcases and windows. If you are outside, move clear of power lines and buildings.
Rattle (Tropical Storms)
Storm season in Guatemala is June to November, similar to the Caribbean and southern area of the United States. Traveling to Guatemala during this time always opens up the possibility of being caught in a bad storm, and because they’re being guided by the hand of nature it’s not always possible to predict exactly where they’ll go.
Tropical Storm Agatha struck in 2010 causing 150 deaths, and the same goes for Hurricane Ida that struck the year before. Hurricane Mitch that struck back in 1998 left massive destruction with 11,000 dead and 8,000 missing.
The numbers here are shocking, and the reason for most of the deaths here is because of the flooding and landslides that come from all the rain.
Flooding and intense rains from Agatha in 2010 are said to be the cause for the giant sinkhole that took out an entire block in Guatemala City.
In 2011 a succession of hurricanes and storms hit Guatemala, dumping more rain than usual and causing widespread damage. The government declared a “state of emergency” in November and evacuated many thousands of people from their villages in southern regions. The impact of the 2011 storm season is likely to be felt for several months into 2012.
What can you do?
The best solution would be to avoid travel to Guatemala during the rainy tropical storm season, and if that still isn't the right option for you, then at least stay on top of the news and get to safer ground if you have the time.
Roll (Volcanoes)
A popular tourist attraction just outside of Antigua is the active volcano, Pacaya, and by active there is literally fresh lava rolling down the sides.
By being a tourist attraction, many people forget that an active volcano is still one that might erupt from time to time, just as Pacaya did in May 2010, killing one reporter who was hit by rocks and debris.
There are several volcanoes in Guatemala, such as the Santiaguito volcano near Quetzaltenango, which is actually in a constant state of eruption. One traveler notes seeing the volcano covered in gray ash because of this.
What can you do?
If partaking in a volcano climb, steer clear of any lava flows. Try to resist the temptation to get close and poke it with a stick, lava is really, really hot (d’oh!).
(A Nomad keeping a respectful distance, although her back is really, really hot!)
We’re stating the really obvious here because Guatemala’s not the sort of place to have warning signs and advice notices, and the safety standards will be a little lower than you’re used to.
Staying Safe
The best way to prepare is to know your risks, to plan accordingly, and most of all, to arm yourself with travel insurance in case you are injured in any way. Registering with the embassy after arrival will help your home country to keep tabs on you in case of an emergency.
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