Rescue efforts in the deadly Guatemala volcano eruption zone were reported to have been suspended yesterday due to danger to workers.
The death toll has climbed to at least 99 following another violent eruption on Tuesday from El Volcan de Fuego, according to the Associated Press.
Nearly 200 people remain missing as rescue efforts have been impacted by recent eruptions, dangerously hot debris flows and daily rainfall.
That number is expected to rise further as officials and rescuers still have not been able to reach some of the hardest-hit areas due to the extreme conditions.
More than 1.7 million people have been affected in the centra American country, with at least 3,000 evacuated.
Rescue efforts have also been disrupted by a lack of electricity in the hardest-hit regions, forcing rescuers to abandon their efforts at night.
Eric Leister, senior meteorologist for AccuWeather, said: “Daily showers and thunderstorms have hindered rescue and recovery efforts, and further downpours are forecast for the area in the coming days.
“The rainfall could be heavy at times and will heighten the risk for flooding, mudslides and lahars [violent mudflows].
“The wet season runs from late May into early October across Guatemala, so the threat for showers and thunderstorms will not be coming to an end anytime soon.”
Latest Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice says: “Volcano Fuego is going through a period of increased activity, which may cause further travel disruption. Visitors are advised to follow the advice of local authorities.
“Guatemala City’s international airport – La Aurora – closed on June 3 due to falling ash. The airport authorities reopened the airport at 8.30am local time on June 4 but flights are operating at airlines’ discretion.
“If you’re due to fly to or from Guatemala City in the coming days you should check with your airline before you travel to the airport.”