Chile volcano range spews ash

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A volcano has erupted in southern Chile, forcing the evacuation of hundreds of people living nearby.

Large columns of smoke have been seen rising from the Puyehue volcano, about 800km (500 miles) south of the capital Santiago.

Witnesses also reported a strong smell of ash and sulphur. A dozen small earthquakes were recorded before the eruption began.

The officials have issued a red alert – the maximum warning level for the area.

Evacuation orders were issued for some 3,500 people, the local authorities said.

They added that the residents would be relocated in shelters in safe areas.

So far there have been no reports of any injuries.

This article is from the BBC News website. © British Broadcasting Corporation, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.

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