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Guatemala volcanic eruption: Death toll at 109, several displaced

Guatemala volcanic eruption: Death toll at 109, several displaced

Guatemala's Fuego volcano

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Those in shelters are unsure as to what awaits them when they return home

Tragedy for families inGuatemalaas they bury their dead on Thursday (June 07) after this week's eruptions from the mighty Fuego volcano.

In the rural community of Alotenango locals have been hard hit. For many here, there was not enough time to evacuate after a blanket of hot ash and smoke covered large parts of the region.

Thetollof dead from the series of eruptions that began on Sunday (June 3) has been gradually rising and currently stands at 109, according to the country's Institute of Forensic Sciences. Authorities report that 190 people are still missing.

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Guatemala's national disaster agency says so far, the eruption has affected the lives of 1.7 million people and 12,000 have been evacuated.

Those in shelters are unsure as to what awaits them when they return home.

Fuego, or "Fire" in Spanish, lies about 25 miles (40 km) southwest of the capital,GuatemalaCity, near the picturesque colonial city of Antigua, a UNESCO world heritage site. The 3,763-metre (12,346-feet) peak is one of several active volcanoes among 34 inGuatemala.