Introduction
Thirty years after Popocatépetl, one of Mexico’s most active volcanoes, surprised millions with a sudden eruption, the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) has released a docuseries titled “30 Years After Popocatépetl’s Reactivation.” This five-part series, each episode lasting 60 minutes, is a collaborative effort between the Institute of Geophysics (IGEF) and the Coordination of University Openness and Digital Education (CUAED) through their educational television channel, Mirador Universitario.
The Significance of Popocatépetl
Popocatépetl, familiarly known as “Don Goyo,” is situated within a 110-kilometer radius affecting approximately 26 to 27 million Mexicans, according to Carlos Valdés González, an IGEF researcher and former director of the National Center for Disaster Prevention (Cenapred). The docuseries aims to bridge the gap between university research and society, focusing on one of Mexico’s most emblematic and closely monitored volcanoes.
Historical Context
On December 21, 1994, Popocatépetl reignited its activity, catching experts off guard. The docuseries features testimonies from UNAM and Cenapred specialists, along with documents, recordings, and materials that detail the events of that day. It also illustrates the evolution of volcanic monitoring since then.
Early Monitoring Challenges
José Luis Macías, IGEF director, explained that there was no monitoring system in place when the volcano reactivated. Little was known about what the volcano might do or the type of eruption it could have. This motivated the creation of this scientific dissemination project.
Cenapred’s Early Experiences
Alicia Martínez Bringas, head of the Volcanic Risk Department at Cenapred, recalled that 30 years ago, the institution was just beginning to operate. With limited experience from the El Chichón eruption, there was insufficient knowledge to handle a phenomenon like Popocatépetl. Fortunately, UNAM’s support was available.
Technical, Historical, and Human Narrative
The docuseries presents a technical, historical, and human narrative from the initial seismic station signals to Cenapred’s first monitoring equipment installations. It also highlights the importance of translating hazard maps into Nahuatl, a language spoken by over a million people in the region, to make this information accessible.
Research-Backed Docuseries
José Ramón San Pablo García, Mirador Universitario’s producer, emphasized the project’s strong research foundation. The CUAED aims to disseminate university activities, including research, academia, and community engagement.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of the docuseries? The series aims to bring the recent history of Popocatépetl closer to the public, as it has always been an integral part of the landscape and daily life for millions.
- Who collaborated on the project? The docuseries is a joint effort between the Institute of Geophysics (IGEF) and the Coordination of University Openness and Digital Education (CUAED) at UNAM.
- What challenges did early monitoring face? There was no established monitoring system when Popocatépetl reactivated, and experts lacked sufficient knowledge about the volcano’s potential behavior.
- What role did UNAM play in addressing these challenges? UNAM’s support, through institutions like IGEF and Cenapred, was crucial in overcoming the limited experience and knowledge during Popocatépetl’s reactivation.
