Parícutin Volcano, located in the Mexican state of Michoacán, is one of the world’s youngest volcanoes and a fascinating example of how a volcano can emerge in modern times. Its birth began on February 20, 1943, when it erupted in a farmer’s cornfield near the village of Parícutin. The farmer, Dionisio Pulido, was working in his field when he heard rumbling noises and noticed cracks opening in the earth. Soon, hot gases, ash, and molten rock started spewing from the ground, and a cone-shaped volcano began forming right before his eyes.
Over the next few days, the volcano rapidly grew, reaching heights of 50 meters (164 feet) within a week and eventually 424 meters (1,391 feet) above the surrounding terrain. Villagers were forced to evacuate, and eventually, the lava flows buried two villages, San Juan Parangaricutiro and Parícutin, though there were no reported fatalities. Scientists were able to observe and study Parícutin’s entire life cycle, from birth to dormancy, providing valuable insights into volcanic processes.
The Parícutin eruption continued for nine years until 1952, when it finally stopped. By then, it had created a cone that stood about 424 meters tall and covered the surrounding landscape in lava flows, transforming the area forever. Today, Parícutin is considered dormant and stands as a natural monument, attracting geologists, tourists, and hikers who want to see where a volcano was “born” in recent history.
Parícutin is a must-see! Feel free to check out my Tours here, and Get in Touch to book your visit! I look forward to seeing you!
Yours,
Carlos Alanis.
