21. GUATEMALA AIRPORT CLOSED

Thursday 27, 8 hours before take-off

Since the Pacaya volcano became active this afternoon, the city of Guatemala is covered in coarse black volcano sand.

At this time it is about 1 cm thick and growing. It is coming down in the rain, so everything is wet and slippery. It is an impressive sight, even in the dark.
TV stations are reporting on the situation. No airplane can land or take off because the runways are slippery as if covered in soap. There is so much sand in the air that airplane turbines would be damaged flying through it.

Fourteen years ago the same thing happened. It took more than 3 days to clear the runways.
Continental airlines phone lines are congested. It is not clear when and how I can leave Guatemala.
The President is considering declaring a state of emergency.
Villages close to the volcano are isolated, and have probably suffered damage. No reports yet on human casualties. Pictures of cars damaged by falling rocks are on TV.

I will keep you posted.

Jean, the Riding Dutchman