Thousands flee as Guatemala’s Volcano of Fire erupts again

Guatemala’s ‘Volcano of Fire’ has erupted again causing thousands to flee from their homes and setting off panic -  even in areas where the latest evacuation order does not apply.

Sirens from emergency vehicles filled the air as rescuers were withdrawn from the hardest hit communities because of new flows of super-heated volcanic material.

Guatemala's disaster agency is calling for calm, but after receiving little or no warning before the volcano exploded Sunday, many people are not taking chances.

Dozens of people were seen walking along roadsides carrying children or a few belongings beside paralysed traffic in parts of Escuintla township south of the volcano.

Only some communities in Escuintla are under an evacuation order, but even in the more distant central Escuintla businesses have closed and people are leaving.

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The death toll stands at 70, but is expected to rise.

The institute's latest bulletin said the blowing ash could reach heights of about 6000 metres above sea level. It warned civil aviation authorities to closely monitor and take precautions regarding air traffic.

The volcano exploded Sunday, sending down superhot clouds of gas and ash that killed at least 70 people in communities on its flanks. Rescuers were evacuated from those areas with the new flows Tuesday afternoon.