Home World Americas News Villarrica volcano eruption: More than 3,000 people evacuated in southern Chile

Villarrica volcano eruption: More than 3,000 people evacuated in southern Chile

Chile’s Villarrica volcano erupted in the early hours of March 3, spewing ash and lava up to 3,300ft into the air.

More than 3,000 people have been evacuated from the volcano’s vicinity in southern Chile. The mayor of the nearby town of Pucon said residents had left “calmly”.

President Michelle Bachelet said she would travel to the area on the same day to assess the situation.

The 2,840m-high Villarrica is an active volcano with a lava lake in its crater.Chile Villarrica volcano eruption 2015

It is a popular destination for hikers. Hundreds climb the peak each summer to peer inside the crater.

According to Chile’s Ministry of Mining, Villarrica’s last major eruption was in 1985.

More than 100 people are thought to have died in mudflows on the slopes of the volcano during the 20th Century.

Chilean police said the towns of Pucon and Conaripe had been evacuated as a precaution.

Pucon Mayor Carlos Parra said that after 20 minutes, the volcano’s activity seemed to have calmed down again.

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Diane is a perfectionist. She enjoys searching the internet for the hottest events from around the world and writing an article about it. The details matter to her, so she makes sure the information is easy to read and understand. She likes traveling and history, especially ancient history. Being a very sociable person she has a blast having barbeque with family and friends.