Volcanic ash falls on villages near Ecuador's Tungurahua

QUITO (AFP) Aug 27, 2003
The Tungurahua volcano, in Ecuador's Andean region spewed ash Tuesday in loud volcanic explosions that have begun "to cause problems" for the local population, authorities said.

The explosions may continue for days or weeks, geophysics experts said.

In its latest report, the Geophysics Institute warned local populations to watch out for rain, saying water could cause ash massing on the sides of the volcano to avalanche.

"It is recommended that people remain alert to possible changes in activity" of the 5,029 meter (16,500 feet) Tungurahua, located 135 kilometers (85 miles) south of Quito, a statement from the institute added.

Large glowing rocks are being churned out of the volcano, which became active again in 1999. A local airline also reported Tuesday that a cloud of ash was currently billowing at 7,010 meters (23,000 feet).

TERRA.WIRE