The Santa María volcano, located in the northwest region of Guatemala near the town of Quetzaltenango, erupted violently in October 1902, creating a significant geological event that was extensively felt across Central America. The eruption began on the 24th of October, with explosive activity that resulted in a large ash plume rising approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) into the atmosphere. This event was notable for its scale, being classified as the third-largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century. Prior to the eruption, the volcano had been dormant for centuries, and its sudden awakening surprised local residents and volcanologists alike.

The eruption caused immediate evacuations in populations living in the vicinity, with reports of pyroclastic flows and volcanic ash covering the region, ultimately leading to substantial loss of life and property. Witnesses described fiery explosions and a darkened sky as ash fell like rain in surrounding towns, impacting agriculture and daily life. The ash spread far beyond Guatemala, affecting air quality and climate across regions, illustrating the volcano's far-reaching effects on the environment. The event intrigued many scientists and volcanologists, leading to increased studies of volcanic activity and disaster preparedness across Central America.

In the aftermath, the eruption provided important data and insights for future volcanic studies, emphasizing the need for active monitoring of dormant volcanoes and establishing risk assessment protocols for surrounding communities. The eruption also served as a collective experience for the Guatemalan people, fostering discussions about the natural world's impact on their lives and igniting government efforts toward disaster response and recovery.