The Witches of Izalco/Las Brujas de Izalco

Who doesn't like a good topic on lesser-known witch folklore? I know I always do. Let me introduce some of you to the not-so-known Salvadoran Witches of Izalco or, for those who want to practice some espanol: Las Brujas de Izalco.

No, that's not them! Just wanted to give you all a visual before I start. So let me just say a bit more of why this topic is so fascinating to me. My mom is from El Salvador, but she raised me in the traditional Roman Catholic cult--I mean--religion, for most of my life (now, no offense to anyone Roman Catholic and I don't mean to offend; I just consider myself a "lapsed" Catholic nowadays who is now invested in learning all things spooky).

Getting back: many who aren't aware (like myself before researching them) might like to know that this Salvadoran folklore includes these particular witches who have immense power. Not just any typical, potions and witchy Harry Potter-type of magical power. But the ability to control the weather. Kind of like powerful Storms from X-Men all coming together to form one happy bunch.

Isn't that cool?? Or would you rather not? Imagine actually pissing them off! Because, if you do, that's where their REAL magic comes out! They'll most likely yell to RELEASE THE CRACKEN--I mean--"[insert espanol curse-at-dumb-visitor]!!" before unleashing ALL types of weather right at you with the goal of obliterating your existence and thus ending your bloodline. Potentially. Assuming you have no children...

Anyway, legend has it that they only attack and ruin lives if provoked. So don't be a jerk or jerk-et and go looking for trouble on your next Central American holiday, hoping to encounter them just to "have a little fun with the locals." Because if you do, don't say me or any of the Salvadoran locals didn't warn you! If you want to read more about them, there's a book titled "Las leyendas de la bruja de Izalco" by Edgar Hernandez. But it'd probably be best if you brush up on your Spanish for anyone not fluent or just learning ;).