A volcano on Spain's La Palma Island has erupted after 50 years. It has destroyed more than 400 homes and forced the evacuation of 6,000 people. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas US Edition: Lava from La Palma volcano could reach the Atlantic Ocean

Emergency authorities early on Monday ordered people in an area on the eastern shore of La Palma island to lock down as the lava gushing from the Cumbre Vieja volcano approaches the sea.

The 1,250 Celsius degree lava may touch the Atlantic Ocean in the coming hours, likely causing explosions and send clouds of toxic gases over the island, the Canary Islands emergency services warned on Monday morning.

People on the coastal areas of San Borondon, Marina Alta and Baja and La Condesa were ordered to lock down.

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On Monday morning after dawn, the volcano was quieter than in the previous days. Spanish TV showed lava spurting from the volcano and clouds of smoke rising above the hillside.

Since the volcano started erupting on September&nbsp;19, the flow of black lava has engulfed more than 230 hectares, the European Union satellite monitoring service Copernicus said, swallowing hundreds of houses as well as roads, schools, churches and banana plantations and forcing thousands to evacuate.

La Palma, with a population of over 83,000, is one of an archipelago making up the Canary Islands.

Emergency authorities early on Monday ordered people in an area on the eastern shore of La Palma island to lock down as the lava gushing from the Cumbre Vieja volcano approaches the sea.

Emergency authorities early on Monday ordered people in an area on the eastern shore of La Palma island to lock down as the lava gushing from the Cumbre Vieja volcano approaches the sea. The 1,250 Celsius degree lava may touch the Atlantic Ocean in the coming hours, likely causing explosions and send clouds of toxic gases over the island, the Canary Islands emergency services warned on Monday morning. People on the coastal areas of San Borondon, Marina Alta and Baja and La Condesa were ordered to lock down. Also read | Volcanic eruption could last three months in Spain’s Canary Islands, say experts On Monday morning after dawn, the volcano was quieter than in the previous days. Spanish TV showed lava spurting from the volcano and clouds of smoke rising above the hillside. Since the volcano started erupting on September 19, the flow of black lava has engulfed more than 230 hectares, the European Union satellite monitoring service Copernicus said, swallowing hundreds of houses as well as roads, schools, churches and banana plantations and forcing thousands to evacuate. La Palma, with a population of over 83,000, is one of an archipelago making up the Canary Islands.

La Palma eruptions continue as lava approaches the sea

Clouds of thick black ash from volcanic eruptions in Spain's Canaries archipelago forced the closure of the airport on&nbsp;La&nbsp;Palma&nbsp;island on Saturday, authorities said.

The Cumbre Vieja volcano came to life a week ago and has intermittently spewed out lava and ash leading to the cancellation of all seven flights on Friday.

"The airport is closed because of the accumulation of ash," said state-owned airport operator Aena.

"Clean-up operations have begun but the situation can change at any moment," it added.

More evacuations were also ordered Friday at the town of El Paso as large explosions and new openings were reported at the volcano.

"Given the increased risk for the population due to the current eruptive episode", the regional government said, an obligatory evacuation order was issued for several districts.

That pushed the number of people forced to leave their homes so far to more than 6,200, including 400 tourists.&nbsp;

The flight cancellations began on Friday.

"It is not yet possible to say when we can resume flights," Spanish carrier Binter said on Twitter.&nbsp;

According to the European Union's Copernicus Earth Observation Programme, lava has so far destroyed 420 buildings and covered more than 190 hectares (470 acres) of land. &nbsp;

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Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced&nbsp;La&nbsp;Palma&nbsp;would be declared "a zone affected by a catastrophe" which opens financial aid to residents.&nbsp;

The speed of the lava flowing from the crater has steadily slowed in recent days, and experts hope it will not reach the coast.&nbsp;

If the molten lava pours into the sea, it can generate clouds of toxic gas into the air, also affecting the marine environment.&nbsp;

No casualties have been reported so far but the damage to land and property has been enormous, with the Canaries regional head Angel Victor Torres estimating the cost at well over 400 million euros.&nbsp;

The eruption on&nbsp;La&nbsp;Palma, home to 85,000 people, was the first in 50 years.&nbsp;

The last eruption on the island came in 1971 when another part of the same volcanic range -- a vent known as Teneguia&nbsp;-- erupted on the southern side of the island.

Two decades earlier, the Nambroque vent erupted in 1949.&nbsp;

Clouds of thick black ash from volcanic eruptions in Spain's Canaries archipelago forced the closure of the airport on La Palma island on Saturday, authorities said.

Clouds of thick black ash from volcanic eruptions in Spain's Canaries archipelago forced the closure of the airport on La Palma island on Saturday, authorities said. The Cumbre Vieja volcano came to life a week ago and has intermittently spewed out lava and ash leading to the cancellation of all seven flights on Friday. "The airport is closed because of the accumulation of ash," said state-owned airport operator Aena. "Clean-up operations have begun but the situation can change at any moment," it added. More evacuations were also ordered Friday at the town of El Paso as large explosions and new openings were reported at the volcano. "Given the increased risk for the population due to the current eruptive episode", the regional government said, an obligatory evacuation order was issued for several districts. That pushed the number of people forced to leave their homes so far to more than 6,200, including 400 tourists. The flight cancellations began on Friday. "It is not yet possible to say when we can resume flights," Spanish carrier Binter said on Twitter. According to the European Union's Copernicus Earth Observation Programme, lava has so far destroyed 420 buildings and covered more than 190 hectares (470 acres) of land. Also read | US border camp cleared of Haitians, thousands more on the move Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced La Palma would be declared "a zone affected by a catastrophe" which opens financial aid to residents. The speed of the lava flowing from the crater has steadily slowed in recent days, and experts hope it will not reach the coast. If the molten lava pours into the sea, it can generate clouds of toxic gas into the air, also affecting the marine environment. No casualties have been reported so far but the damage to land and property has been enormous, with the Canaries regional head Angel Victor Torres estimating the cost at well over 400 million euros. The eruption on La Palma, home to 85,000 people, was the first in 50 years. The last eruption on the island came in 1971 when another part of the same volcanic range -- a vent known as Teneguia -- erupted on the southern side of the island. Two decades earlier, the Nambroque vent erupted in 1949.

Eruptions shut airport on Canaries volcanic island

Scientists say another vent has opened up on Cumbre Vieja, the volcano on the Spanish island of La Palma that has been erupting for a week, exposing tens of thousands of islanders to new dangers. Watch this report for more details.

La Palma volcano enters explosive phase

Guatemala's Fuego volcano began a strong eruptive phase on Thursday, spewing lava and ash in a series of explosions that have not yet forced any evacuations, authorities said.

The eruptions produced a long river of lava flowing down to the base of the volcano, some 35 kilometers southwest of the capital Guatemala City, said Emilio Barillas of the Insivumeh volcano institute.

"Activity that is taking place at the moment corresponds to the beginning of an eruption of strombolian character," Barillas said, using the scientific word for a mix of explosions and lava flow.

Fuego, 3.7 kilometers high, is one of three active volcanoes in Guatemala.

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The recently recorded activity is the strongest since June 2018, when Fuego unleashed a torrent of mud and ash that wiped the village of San Miguel Los Lotes from the map, said Barillas.

More than 200 people were killed.

On Thursday, several communities at the foot of the mountain reported nothing more serious than a downpour of ash, said the national Conred disaster coordination center.

"For now, no evacuation program has been initiated," said Conred spokesman David de Leon, though the situation was being closely followed.

Guatemala's Fuego volcano began a strong eruptive phase on Thursday, spewing lava and ash in a series of explosions that have not yet forced any evacuations, authorities said.

Guatemala's Fuego volcano began a strong eruptive phase on Thursday, spewing lava and ash in a series of explosions that have not yet forced any evacuations, authorities said. The eruptions produced a long river of lava flowing down to the base of the volcano, some 35 kilometers southwest of the capital Guatemala City, said Emilio Barillas of the Insivumeh volcano institute. "Activity that is taking place at the moment corresponds to the beginning of an eruption of strombolian character," Barillas said, using the scientific word for a mix of explosions and lava flow. Fuego, 3.7 kilometers high, is one of three active volcanoes in Guatemala. Also read | Footprints reveal humans arrived in Americas before end of Ice Age The recently recorded activity is the strongest since June 2018, when Fuego unleashed a torrent of mud and ash that wiped the village of San Miguel Los Lotes from the map, said Barillas. More than 200 people were killed. On Thursday, several communities at the foot of the mountain reported nothing more serious than a downpour of ash, said the national Conred disaster coordination center. "For now, no evacuation program has been initiated," said Conred spokesman David de Leon, though the situation was being closely followed.

Guatemala volcano erupts but no evacuations yet

It's true what they say. Home is where the heart is. But when you build a house with love, the place, that exact place, becomes a matter of deep attachment. Losing a house is traumatic event. It is a joyous moment indeed when a stroke of luck turns the odds in your favour and your home is preserved.

One such house is being called the 'miracle house' on social media. The house is located on La Palma on Canary Islands.&nbsp;

Canary Islands have seen massive volcanic eruptions just a few days ago.

But as it can be seen in the photo, the house in the middle has been spared by the lava flows that appear to have flown around it. Lava is literally thousands of degrees hot and does not spare anything in its path as it moves on ground.

This house appears to have been spared from the fury and has justifiably earned the tag of 'miracle house'.

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On Friday, Jets of red hot lava shot into the sky on Spain's La Palma. as a huge cloud of toxic ash drifted from the Cumbre Vieja volcano toward the mainland and jeopardized the island's economically crucial banana crops.

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Walls of lava, which turns black when exposed to the air, have advanced slowly westward since Sunday (September 19), engulfing everything in their path, including houses, schools and some banana plantations.

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With more than 200 houses destroyed and thousands of evacuated people unable to return home, the Canary Islands' regional government said it would buy two housing developments with a combined 73 properties for those made homeless. Spanish banks jointly announced they would offer vacant homes they hold across the Canaries as emergency shelter.

(With inputs from agencies)

It's true what they say. Home is where the heart is. But when you build a house with love, the place, that exact place, becomes a matter of deep attachment. Losing a house is traumatic event.

It's true what they say. Home is where the heart is. But when you build a house with love, the place, that exact place, becomes a matter of deep attachment. Losing a house is traumatic event. It is a joyous moment indeed when a stroke of luck turns the odds in your favour and your home is preserved. One such house is being called the 'miracle house' on social media. The house is located on La Palma on Canary Islands. Canary Islands have seen massive volcanic eruptions just a few days ago. But as it can be seen in the photo, the house in the middle has been spared by the lava flows that appear to have flown around it. Lava is literally thousands of degrees hot and does not spare anything in its path as it moves on ground. This house appears to have been spared from the fury and has justifiably earned the tag of 'miracle house'. Also Read | Indian salon ordered to pay Rs 20 million as damages for a 'traumatic' haircut On Friday, Jets of red hot lava shot into the sky on Spain's La Palma. as a huge cloud of toxic ash drifted from the Cumbre Vieja volcano toward the mainland and jeopardized the island's economically crucial banana crops. Also Read | Bloodthirsty vampire bats prefer sharing drink with friends, finds study Walls of lava, which turns black when exposed to the air, have advanced slowly westward since Sunday (September 19), engulfing everything in their path, including houses, schools and some banana plantations. Also Read | NASA's InSight lander detects huge 'marsquakes' With more than 200 houses destroyed and thousands of evacuated people unable to return home, the Canary Islands' regional government said it would buy two housing developments with a combined 73 properties for those made homeless. Spanish banks jointly announced they would offer vacant homes they hold across the Canaries as emergency shelter. (With inputs from agencies)

Canary Islands 'miracle home' defies odds to escape lava flows

Lava poured from an erupting volcano on the Spanish island of La Palma for a fourth day on Wednesday, blanketing houses and fields, a day after people with homes on the path of the molten rock were allowed back briefly to recover belongings.

Towers of magma burst high into the air overnight, painting the night sky red and spraying fiery debris onto the flanks of the Cumbre Vieja volcano.

Drone footage earlier showed lava flowing westwards to the coast in three huge tongues, incinerating everything in their path, including a school.

During the night between Tuesday and Wednesday, the Canary Islands` vulcanology institute said the amplitude of the volcano`s seismic activity intensified.

That seismic activity is "an indicator of the intensity of the strombolian explosive activity," the institute said late on Tuesday. Strombolian is an adjective describing volcanic eruptions with violent explosions ejecting incandescent dust.

The report was issued as the lava pouring from the flanks of the volcano had spread to cover 154 hectares (0.59 square mile) in the towns of El Paso and Los Llanos de Aridane, according to Copernicus Emergency Management Service.

The unstoppable lava has been slowly burning and covering houses as well as fields since the Cumbre Vieja volcano has erupted on Sunday afternoon.

About 6,000 people of the 80,000 people living on the island have been evacuated since Sunday and those living on the path of the lava were allowed back into their homes for brief moments to recover belongings.

No fatalities or injuries have been reported, but drone footage captured two tongues of black lava cutting a devastating swathe through the landscape as they advanced down the volcano`s western flank towards the sea.

Experts say that if and when the lava reaches the sea, it could trigger more explosions and clouds of toxic gases. Marine authorities are keeping a two nautical mile area in the sea around the area closed as a precaution.

The lava flow was initially expected to reach the shore on Monday evening, but its speed has fallen.

Lava poured from an erupting volcano on the Spanish island of La Palma for a fourth day on Wednesday, blanketing houses and fields, a day after people with homes on the path of the molten rock were allowed back briefly to recover belongings.

Lava poured from an erupting volcano on the Spanish island of La Palma for a fourth day on Wednesday, blanketing houses and fields, a day after people with homes on the path of the molten rock were allowed back briefly to recover belongings. Towers of magma burst high into the air overnight, painting the night sky red and spraying fiery debris onto the flanks of the Cumbre Vieja volcano. Drone footage earlier showed lava flowing westwards to the coast in three huge tongues, incinerating everything in their path, including a school. During the night between Tuesday and Wednesday, the Canary Islands` vulcanology institute said the amplitude of the volcano`s seismic activity intensified. That seismic activity is "an indicator of the intensity of the strombolian explosive activity," the institute said late on Tuesday. Strombolian is an adjective describing volcanic eruptions with violent explosions ejecting incandescent dust. The report was issued as the lava pouring from the flanks of the volcano had spread to cover 154 hectares (0.59 square mile) in the towns of El Paso and Los Llanos de Aridane, according to Copernicus Emergency Management Service. The unstoppable lava has been slowly burning and covering houses as well as fields since the Cumbre Vieja volcano has erupted on Sunday afternoon. About 6,000 people of the 80,000 people living on the island have been evacuated since Sunday and those living on the path of the lava were allowed back into their homes for brief moments to recover belongings. No fatalities or injuries have been reported, but drone footage captured two tongues of black lava cutting a devastating swathe through the landscape as they advanced down the volcano`s western flank towards the sea. Experts say that if and when the lava reaches the sea, it could trigger more explosions and clouds of toxic gases. Marine authorities are keeping a two nautical mile area in the sea around the area closed as a precaution. The lava flow was initially expected to reach the shore on Monday evening, but its speed has fallen.

Volcano lava in Spain's Canary Island gushes towards sea, eruption goes on

A volcano eruption on La Palma in the Spanish Canary Islands has destroyed houses and forced residents to evacuate. The civil guards remain on alert as experts are warning that the eruption may last for days.

Volcanic eruption on La Palma in Spain's Canary Islands forces evacuations

A new fissure emerged in the erupting volcano on Spain's Canary Islands, gushing out more lava and forcing another 500 people to flee, officials said Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Cumbre Vieja volcano has forced a total of 6,000 people from their homes and destroyed around 100 properties since it erupted on Sunday afternoon.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaPalma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaPalma</a> Incredible scenes coming from the Canary Islands at the moment! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StaySafe</a> <a href="https://t.co/eCMSYBnVyW">pic.twitter.com/eCMSYBnVyW</a>
— Martyn Sadler (@martyn_sadler) <a href="https://twitter.com/martyn_sadler/status/1439710293186289665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Invoca has confirmed that the lava coming out of the volcano reaches a temperature of 1075 ºC. THIS IS CRAZY!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/spain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#spain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/volcano?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#volcano</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lapalma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lapalma</a> <a href="https://t.co/kvvSTZDAVP">pic.twitter.com/kvvSTZDAVP</a>
— Erin (@Erinhazeel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Erinhazeel/status/1439719800746487811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In a tweet, the emergency services said that "a new eruptive fissure has opened" and that the "population is being evacuated".&nbsp; 
At the scene, long lines of cars could be seen waiting to leave the area as police sirens wailed, the fiery glow of the erupting volcano lighting up the dark skies.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez flew to La Palma as Mount Cumbre Vieja erupted in El Paso, spewing out columns of smoke, ash and lava as seen from Los Llanos de Aridane on the Canary island of La Palma.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-pm-arrives-as-volcano-erupts-destroying-buildings-in-canary-islands-414435">Also read |&nbsp;Spanish PM arrives as volcano erupts destroying buildings in Canary Islands</a>

Canary Islands Volcanology Institute reported the initial eruption shortly after 3pm near the southern end of the island, which saw its last eruption in 1971.&nbsp;

La Palma, with a population of 85,000, is one of the eight volcanic islands in Spain’s Canary Islands archipelago off Africa’s western coast.&nbsp;

Sánchez has postponed his departure to New York for the UN General Assembly in order to travel to La Palma because of the volcanic eruption.

"I am at the moment heading to the Canary Islands because of the seismic evolution, to see first-hand the situation in La Palma, the coordination of the

A new fissure emerged in the erupting volcano on Spain's Canary Islands, gushing out more lava and forcing another 500 people to flee, officials said Tuesday. The Cumbre Vieja volcano has forced a total of 6,000 people from their homes and destroyed around 100 properties since it erupted on Sunday afternoon.

A new fissure emerged in the erupting volcano on Spain's Canary Islands, gushing out more lava and forcing another 500 people to flee, officials said Tuesday. The Cumbre Vieja volcano has forced a total of 6,000 people from their homes and destroyed around 100 properties since it erupted on Sunday afternoon. #LaPalma Incredible scenes coming from the Canary Islands at the moment! #StaySafe pic.twitter.com/eCMSYBnVyW — Martyn Sadler (@martyn_sadler) September 19, 2021 × The Invoca has confirmed that the lava coming out of the volcano reaches a temperature of 1075 ºC. THIS IS CRAZY!!! #spain #volcano #lapalma pic.twitter.com/kvvSTZDAVP — Erin (@Erinhazeel) September 19, 2021 × In a tweet, the emergency services said that "a new eruptive fissure has opened" and that the "population is being evacuated". At the scene, long lines of cars could be seen waiting to leave the area as police sirens wailed, the fiery glow of the erupting volcano lighting up the dark skies. Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez flew to La Palma as Mount Cumbre Vieja erupted in El Paso, spewing out columns of smoke, ash and lava as seen from Los Llanos de Aridane on the Canary island of La Palma. Also read | Spanish PM arrives as volcano erupts destroying buildings in Canary Islands Canary Islands Volcanology Institute reported the initial eruption shortly after 3pm near the southern end of the island, which saw its last eruption in 1971. La Palma, with a population of 85,000, is one of the eight volcanic islands in Spain’s Canary Islands archipelago off Africa’s western coast. Sánchez has postponed his departure to New York for the UN General Assembly in order to travel to La Palma because of the volcanic eruption. "I am at the moment heading to the Canary Islands because of the seismic evolution, to see first-hand the situation in La Palma, the coordination of the

New fissure opens in Canary Islands volcano

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez flew to La Palma as Mount Cumbre Vieja erupts in El Paso, spewing out columns of smoke, ash and lava as seen from Los Llanos de Aridane on the Canary island of La Palma.

Canary Islands Volcanology Institute reported the initial eruption shortly after 3pm near the southern end of the island, which saw its last eruption in 1971. La Palma, with a population of 85,000, is one of the eight volcanic islands in Spain’s Canary Islands archipelago off Africa’s western coast. As per authorities, thousands have been evacuated.&nbsp;

A 4.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded before the eruption, which took place in an area known as Cabeza de Vaca.

According to local officials, the lava eventually destroyed at least eight houses which led to at least one chalet with a tower to crumble. Authorities have warned that the lava flows could also threaten the municipalities of El Paraiso, Alcala, and surrounding areas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-lava-gushes-thousands-evacuated-as-volcano-erupts-in-spains-canary-islands-414400#mount-cumbre-vieja-erupts-414395">Also read |&nbsp;In Pics | Lava gushes, thousands evacuated as volcano erupts in Spain's Canary Islands</a>

Sánchez has postponed his departure to New York for the UN General Assembly in order to travel to La Palma because of the volcanic eruption.

"I am at the moment heading to the Canary Islands because of the seismic evolution, to see first-hand the situation in La Palma, the coordination of the means, and the protocols that have been activated," Sánchez tweeted.

While speaking to AFP, a&nbsp;regional government spokeswoman said "a number of houses have been destroyed". She further added that they were still surveying the area to determine how many properties had been engulfed.&nbsp;

Sergio Rodriguez, mayor of the nearby village of El Paso said at least 20 homes were completely destroyed by the volcano.&nbsp;"The lava left absolutely nothing in its path", Rodriguez told TVE broadcaster, saying residents were living in uncertainty.&nbsp;

They will "not be going home for a while, that's for sure", he added.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez flew to La Palma as Mount Cumbre Vieja erupts in El Paso, spewing out columns of smoke, ash and lava as seen from Los Llanos de Aridane on the Canary island of La Palma.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez flew to La Palma as Mount Cumbre Vieja erupts in El Paso, spewing out columns of smoke, ash and lava as seen from Los Llanos de Aridane on the Canary island of La Palma. Canary Islands Volcanology Institute reported the initial eruption shortly after 3pm near the southern end of the island, which saw its last eruption in 1971. La Palma, with a population of 85,000, is one of the eight volcanic islands in Spain’s Canary Islands archipelago off Africa’s western coast. As per authorities, thousands have been evacuated. A 4.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded before the eruption, which took place in an area known as Cabeza de Vaca. According to local officials, the lava eventually destroyed at least eight houses which led to at least one chalet with a tower to crumble. Authorities have warned that the lava flows could also threaten the municipalities of El Paraiso, Alcala, and surrounding areas. Also read | In Pics | Lava gushes, thousands evacuated as volcano erupts in Spain's Canary Islands Sánchez has postponed his departure to New York for the UN General Assembly in order to travel to La Palma because of the volcanic eruption. "I am at the moment heading to the Canary Islands because of the seismic evolution, to see first-hand the situation in La Palma, the coordination of the means, and the protocols that have been activated," Sánchez tweeted. While speaking to AFP, a regional government spokeswoman said "a number of houses have been destroyed". She further added that they were still surveying the area to determine how many properties had been engulfed. Sergio Rodriguez, mayor of the nearby village of El Paso said at least 20 homes were completely destroyed by the volcano. "The lava left absolutely nothing in its path", Rodriguez told TVE broadcaster, saying residents were living in uncertainty. They will "not be going home for a while, that's for sure", he added.

Spanish PM arrives as volcano erupts destroying buildings in Canary Islands

The Canary Islands' first volcanic eruption in 50 years has forced the evacuation of about 5,000 people, including around 500 tourists, and destroyed about 100 houses, officials said on Monday.

Watch: Lava stream destroys homes in Spain's La Palma island

The Cumbre Vieja&nbsp;volcano&nbsp;erupted on Spain's&nbsp;Canary&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;on Sunday spewing out lava, ash and a huge column of smoke after days of increased seismic activity, sparking evacuations of people living nearby, authorities said.

Cumbre Vieja, which last erupted 50 years ago, straddles a ridge in the south of La Palma island, home to around 80,000 people.

"The eruption started in the Cabeza de Vaca zone, in El Paso," the local government said on its Twitter account, adding that evacuations have started in the areas closest to the&nbsp;volcano.

"People are asked to be extremely careful and to stay away from the eruption zone to avoid needless risk," the government added.

The head of the Canaries region, Angel Victor Torres, said the zone was forested and "sparsely populated".

State television ran live coverage of the eruption during the late afternoon.

<img alt="Mount Cumbre Vieja erupts spewing out a column of smoke, ash and lava " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d268b0a1-8327-4e2b-a841-1a60b4bb4d9c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/volcano.jpg" />

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced he would head to the scene later Sunday "to follow developments".

"Given the situation La Palma island, the head of government has delayed his scheduled departure today for New York," to attend the UN General Assembly, a statement said.

"All the services are prepared to act in a coordinated fashion," Sanchez wrote on Twitter.

<img alt="The Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted on Spain's Canary Islands today spewing out lava, ash and a huge column of smoke after days of increased seismic activity, sparking evacuations of people living nearby, " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abde630e-46ab-4ad5-942e-dbcf8a5871f6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/volc3.jpg" />

The interior ministry said 200 members of the security services had been mobilised with a helicopter as back up.

<h2>&nbsp;Thousands of tremors&nbsp;</h2>

Experts had been keeping a close watch on the&nbsp;volcano&nbsp;after observing an upsurge in seismic activity and magma displacements.

An earthquake swarm under La Cumbre Vieja began a week ago and since then there had been thousands of tremors, the strongest with a magnitude of nearly four, the Involcan vulcanology institute said.

An earthquake swarm&nbsp;is a sequence of seismic events occurring in one place within a relatively short period of time.

The authorities had on Tuesday raised the alert level from green to yellow, the second of four levels, in certain areas around the&nbsp;volcano, meaning civil protection officials had to inform the public "to take precautions ahead of a possible volcanic eruption", under an emergency plan.&nbsp;

Involcan had reported a "significant ground deformation" as a result of "a small volume" of new magma flowing into the reservoir underneath the&nbsp;volcano, which amounted to 11 million cubic metres.&nbsp;

"Undoubtedly the current seismic swarm represents a significant change in the activity of the Cumbre Vieja&nbsp;volcano&nbsp;and is related to a process of magmatic intrusion beneath the island of La Palma," it said.

The Canaries, an archipelago of seven&nbsp;islands&nbsp;off of northwestern Africa, last recorded a volcanic eruption in 2011, undersea off El Hierro island.

Cumbre Vieja erupted twice in the 20th century -- in 1971 and in 1949.

The Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted on Spain's Canary Islands on Sunday spewing out lava, ash and a huge column of smoke after days of increased seismic activity, sparking evacuations of people living nearby, authorities said.

The Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted on Spain's Canary Islands on Sunday spewing out lava, ash and a huge column of smoke after days of increased seismic activity, sparking evacuations of people living nearby, authorities said. Cumbre Vieja, which last erupted 50 years ago, straddles a ridge in the south of La Palma island, home to around 80,000 people. "The eruption started in the Cabeza de Vaca zone, in El Paso," the local government said on its Twitter account, adding that evacuations have started in the areas closest to the volcano. "People are asked to be extremely careful and to stay away from the eruption zone to avoid needless risk," the government added. The head of the Canaries region, Angel Victor Torres, said the zone was forested and "sparsely populated". State television ran live coverage of the eruption during the late afternoon. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced he would head to the scene later Sunday "to follow developments". "Given the situation La Palma island, the head of government has delayed his scheduled departure today for New York," to attend the UN General Assembly, a statement said. "All the services are prepared to act in a coordinated fashion," Sanchez wrote on Twitter. The interior ministry said 200 members of the security services had been mobilised with a helicopter as back up. Thousands of tremors Experts had been keeping a close watch on the volcano after observing an upsurge in seismic activity and magma displacements. An earthquake swarm under La Cumbre Vieja began a week ago and since then there had been thousands of tremors, the strongest with a magnitude of nearly four, the Involcan vulcanology institute said. An earthquake swarm is a sequence of seismic events occurring in one place within a relatively short period of time. The authorities had on Tuesday raised the alert level from green to yellow, the second of four levels, in certain areas around the volcano, meaning civil protection officials had to inform the public "to take precautions ahead of a possible volcanic eruption", under an emergency plan. Involcan had reported a "significant ground deformation" as a result of "a small volume" of new magma flowing into the reservoir underneath the volcano, which amounted to 11 million cubic metres. "Undoubtedly the current seismic swarm represents a significant change in the activity of the Cumbre Vieja volcano and is related to a process of magmatic intrusion beneath the island of La Palma," it said. The Canaries, an archipelago of seven islands off of northwestern Africa, last recorded a volcanic eruption in 2011, undersea off El Hierro island. Cumbre Vieja erupted twice in the 20th century -- in 1971 and in 1949.

Volcano erupts on Spain's Canary Islands

Indonesia's most active&nbsp;volcano&nbsp;Mount Merapi erupted Monday, belching a cloud of&nbsp;ash&nbsp;into the air as red lava flowed down its&nbsp;crater.

The early morning explosions spewed clouds as far as 3.5 kilometres (2 miles) from the rumbling&nbsp;volcano, blanketing local communities in grey&nbsp;ash.

There were no evacuation orders or reports of casualties.

Merapi, close to&nbsp;Indonesia's cultural capital Yogyakarta on Java island, has been particularly active in recent months and authorities raised its danger level late last year.

Residents were told to avoid the area within a five-kilometre radius of the rumbling&nbsp;volcano,&nbsp;Indonesia's geological agency said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-kabul-descended-in-chaos-india-was-ready-for-unsc-meet-on-afghanistan-on-sunday-405889">Also read |&nbsp;As Kabul descended in chaos, India was ready for UNSC meet on Afghanistan on Sunday</a>

"Residents should avoid volcanic&nbsp;ash&nbsp;and they've been warned about potential lava flows in the area surrounding Merapi," it added.

Mount Merapi's last major eruption in 2010 killed more than 300 people and forced the evacuation of around 280,000 residents from surrounding areas.

That was its most powerful eruption since 1930, when around 1,300 people were killed, while another explosion in 1994 took about 60 lives.

The Southeast Asian archipelago nation has nearly 130 active volcanoes.

Indonesia&nbsp;experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", where tectonic plates collide.

Indonesia's most active volcano Mount Merapi erupted Monday, belching a cloud of ash into the air as red lava flowed down its crater. The early morning explosions spewed clouds as far as 3.

Indonesia's most active volcano Mount Merapi erupted Monday, belching a cloud of ash into the air as red lava flowed down its crater. The early morning explosions spewed clouds as far as 3.5 kilometres (2 miles) from the rumbling volcano, blanketing local communities in grey ash. There were no evacuation orders or reports of casualties. Merapi, close to Indonesia's cultural capital Yogyakarta on Java island, has been particularly active in recent months and authorities raised its danger level late last year. Residents were told to avoid the area within a five-kilometre radius of the rumbling volcano, Indonesia's geological agency said. Also read | As Kabul descended in chaos, India was ready for UNSC meet on Afghanistan on Sunday "Residents should avoid volcanic ash and they've been warned about potential lava flows in the area surrounding Merapi," it added. Mount Merapi's last major eruption in 2010 killed more than 300 people and forced the evacuation of around 280,000 residents from surrounding areas. That was its most powerful eruption since 1930, when around 1,300 people were killed, while another explosion in 1994 took about 60 lives. The Southeast Asian archipelago nation has nearly 130 active volcanoes. Indonesia experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", where tectonic plates collide.

Indonesia volcano erupts, blankets villages in ash

A strong explosion shook the Caspian Sea area. As a result of this, a column of fire rose into the sky late on Sunday.

The cause of the blast was not immediately determined. However, the state oil company Socar said highlighted that it was a mud volcano. The company further said that none of its platforms was damaged in the explosion.

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Yesterday, there was a blast in the Caspian Sea, which also was vividly witnessed from Baku. Many assumed it was an explosion in oil and gas platforms, but the dawn revealed a new baby island in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. <a href="https://t.co/oeDnIQKp88">pic.twitter.com/oeDnIQKp88</a>
— Ali Mirzazada (@AliMirzazada) <a href="https://twitter.com/AliMirzazada/status/1411936058485493761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Not to be outdone by the Gulf of Mexico, there was a massive explosion in the Caspian Sea <a href="https://t.co/JgxMkAmzUW">pic.twitter.com/JgxMkAmzUW</a>
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Phil_Lewis_/status/1411806581113643011?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Mark Tingay, who is an expert on mud volcano and adjunct associate professor at the Australia’s University of Adelaide, said the explosion “certainly could be a mud volcano” and that the location “fits roughly” with a mud volcano called Makarov Bank, which exploded in 1958, releasing a column of flame 500-600 metres high and 150 metres wide.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rest-of-collapsed-florida-apartment-demolished-ahead-of-storm-search-and-rescue-to-resume-395845">Also read |&nbsp;Rest of collapsed Florida apartment demolished ahead of storm, search and rescue to resume</a>

He further said that the country has “hundreds” of mud volcanoes, and a quarter of these are known to erupt violently.&nbsp;

Socar spokesman Ibrahim Ahmadov has been quoted by the Azerbaijani news agency APA saying the blast took place about 10km from the Umid gas field, which is 75km off the coast of the capital, Baku.

Scientists are yet to determine the cause of mud volcanoes. However, the most likely theory is that the boulders and rocks which are propelled upwards during an explosion can knock against each other. This causes a spark that lights gasses.

A strong explosion shook the Caspian Sea area. As a result of this, a column of fire rose into the sky late on Sunday. The cause of the blast was not immediately determined.

A strong explosion shook the Caspian Sea area. As a result of this, a column of fire rose into the sky late on Sunday. The cause of the blast was not immediately determined. However, the state oil company Socar said highlighted that it was a mud volcano. The company further said that none of its platforms was damaged in the explosion. Yesterday, there was a blast in the Caspian Sea, which also was vividly witnessed from Baku. Many assumed it was an explosion in oil and gas platforms, but the dawn revealed a new baby island in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. pic.twitter.com/oeDnIQKp88 — Ali Mirzazada (@AliMirzazada) July 5, 2021 × Not to be outdone by the Gulf of Mexico, there was a massive explosion in the Caspian Sea pic.twitter.com/JgxMkAmzUW — philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) July 4, 2021 × Mark Tingay, who is an expert on mud volcano and adjunct associate professor at the Australia’s University of Adelaide, said the explosion “certainly could be a mud volcano” and that the location “fits roughly” with a mud volcano called Makarov Bank, which exploded in 1958, releasing a column of flame 500-600 metres high and 150 metres wide. Also read | Rest of collapsed Florida apartment demolished ahead of storm, search and rescue to resume He further said that the country has “hundreds” of mud volcanoes, and a quarter of these are known to erupt violently. Socar spokesman Ibrahim Ahmadov has been quoted by the Azerbaijani news agency APA saying the blast took place about 10km from the Umid gas field, which is 75km off the coast of the capital, Baku. Scientists are yet to determine the cause of mud volcanoes. However, the most likely theory is that the boulders and rocks which are propelled upwards during an explosion can knock against each other. This causes a spark that lights gasses.

Caspian sea explosion caused by 'mud volcano'

Philippine officials on Saturday said that over 2,000 people have fled from a volcano eruption that has filled the air near the Philippine capital with toxic gas.&nbsp;

Sitting in a picturesque lake, the Taal volcano, has been pouring out sulphur dioxide for several days. This created a thick haze over Manila and several surrounding provinces and prompting health warnings.&nbsp;

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Taal Volcano is at ALERT LEVEL 3 (magmatic unrest) since 1 July 2021. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring the volcano’s condition and any new development will be relayed to all concerned.<a href="https://t.co/LAXzeYsWTw">https://t.co/LAXzeYsWTw</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HandaAngMayAlam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HandaAngMayAlam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ScienceForThePeople?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ScienceForThePeople</a> <a href="https://t.co/zn6rkTiNU9">pic.twitter.com/zn6rkTiNU9</a>
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The volcano lies 50 kilometres south of Manila. For the past week, it has discharged volcanic smog that has blotted out the sun in the capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volcano-erupts-near-icelandic-capital-ending-a-streak-of-earthquakes-371804">Also Read |&nbsp;Volcano erupts near Icelandic capital, ending a streak of earthquakes</a>

Civil defence officials have warned that upwards of 317,000 people could be vulnerable to toxic gas emissions from the volcano under the current eruption's worst-case scenario.

Taal is considered as one of the most active volcanoes in a nation which is hit periodically by eruptions and earthquakes due to its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", which is a zone of intense seismic activity.&nbsp;

The last eruption there in January 2020 shot ash 15 kilometres (nine miles) high and spewed red-hot lava, crushing scores of homes, killing livestock and sending over 135,000 people into shelters.

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BULKANG TAAL 
Buod ng 24 oras na pagmamanman 
03 Hulyo 2021 alas-5 ng umaga <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TaalVolcano?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TaalVolcano</a> <a href="https://t.co/KZu6Cqmi6m">https://t.co/KZu6Cqmi6m</a> <a href="https://t.co/BlnKKUWA17">pic.twitter.com/BlnKKUWA17</a>
— PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) <a href="https://twitter.com/phivolcs_dost/status/1411114602071347201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Provincial disaster official Joselito Castro, while speaking to AFP, said, "We expect more residents to evacuate over the coming days". He further added that they were seeking refuge either in schools closed by the coronavirus pandemic or in the homes of relatives.

Philippine officials on Saturday said that over 2,000 people have fled from a volcano eruption that has filled the air near the Philippine capital with toxic gas.

Philippine officials on Saturday said that over 2,000 people have fled from a volcano eruption that has filled the air near the Philippine capital with toxic gas. Sitting in a picturesque lake, the Taal volcano, has been pouring out sulphur dioxide for several days. This created a thick haze over Manila and several surrounding provinces and prompting health warnings. Taal Volcano is at ALERT LEVEL 3 (magmatic unrest) since 1 July 2021. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring the volcano’s condition and any new development will be relayed to all concerned.https://t.co/LAXzeYsWTw#HandaAngMayAlam #ScienceForThePeople pic.twitter.com/zn6rkTiNU9 — PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) July 3, 2021 × The volcano lies 50 kilometres south of Manila. For the past week, it has discharged volcanic smog that has blotted out the sun in the capital. Also Read | Volcano erupts near Icelandic capital, ending a streak of earthquakes Civil defence officials have warned that upwards of 317,000 people could be vulnerable to toxic gas emissions from the volcano under the current eruption's worst-case scenario. Taal is considered as one of the most active volcanoes in a nation which is hit periodically by eruptions and earthquakes due to its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", which is a zone of intense seismic activity. The last eruption there in January 2020 shot ash 15 kilometres (nine miles) high and spewed red-hot lava, crushing scores of homes, killing livestock and sending over 135,000 people into shelters. BULKANG TAAL Buod ng 24 oras na pagmamanman 03 Hulyo 2021 alas-5 ng umaga #TaalVolcano https://t.co/KZu6Cqmi6m pic.twitter.com/BlnKKUWA17 — PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) July 3, 2021 × Provincial disaster official Joselito Castro, while speaking to AFP, said, "We expect more residents to evacuate over the coming days". He further added that they were seeking refuge either in schools closed by the coronavirus pandemic or in the homes of relatives.

More than 2,000 flee as Philippine volcano spews toxic gas

Amid fears that the Mount Nyiragongo volcano may erupt again, over 400,000 people have fled the city of Goma in the DR Congo. Tens of thousands of people are gathered west of the city in Sake, AFP reported. Authorities are gearing up to help all in need.

Last weekend, Nyiragongo erupted - instilling fear among the inhabitants of regions nearby Africa’s most active volcano.

Over three dozen lives have been lost to the eruption from last week. Homes of 20,000 were also destroyed in the event.

Since the eruption, hundreds of aftershocks have been reported in the area. Scientists are worried about a “liming eruption”, which could fill the area with suffocating carbon dioxide.&nbsp;Experts carrying&nbsp;out a risk assessment at the volcano's summit, said "seismicity and ground deformation continues to indicate the presence of magma under the Goma area, with an extension under Lake Kivu."

"People should remain vigilant and listen to news bulletins, as the situation 'may change quickly'", it warned.

A report from Friday showed that 80,000 households constituting 400,000 people had evacuated the area on Thursday after a “preventive” evacuation was ordered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/thousands-flee-goma-after-congo-warns-of-possible-new-volcano-eruption-387830" hreflang="en">Thousands flee Goma after Congo warns of possible new volcano eruption</a>

Rwandan President Paul Kagame said those evacuating needed "urgent, global support". Most of the people fled to Sake or the Rwandan border in the northeast. Many have also left the are via boat across Lake Kivu.

Over 10,000 people are currently taking refuge in Bukavu along the southern bank of Lake Kivu, according to governor Theo Ngwabidje. On Friday afternoon, fresh fears erupted in the minds of people after black smoke was seen emerging from the crater.

General Constant Ndima, the military governor of North Kivu province has reportedly ordered the evacuation of many districts. This affects nearly 400,000 out of Goma's 600,000 residents, according to an estimate provided by the United Nations humanitarian agency OCHA.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/dr-congos-goma-hit-by-tremors-after-volcanic-eruption-scores-still-missing-387191" hreflang="en">DR Congo's Goma hit by tremors after volcanic eruption, scores still missing&nbsp;</a>

Amid fears that the Mount Nyiragongo volcano may erupt again, over 400,000 people have fled the city of Goma in the DR Congo. Tens of thousands of people are gathered west of the city in Sake, AFP reported.

Amid fears that the Mount Nyiragongo volcano may erupt again, over 400,000 people have fled the city of Goma in the DR Congo. Tens of thousands of people are gathered west of the city in Sake, AFP reported. Authorities are gearing up to help all in need. Last weekend, Nyiragongo erupted - instilling fear among the inhabitants of regions nearby Africa’s most active volcano. Over three dozen lives have been lost to the eruption from last week. Homes of 20,000 were also destroyed in the event. Since the eruption, hundreds of aftershocks have been reported in the area. Scientists are worried about a “liming eruption”, which could fill the area with suffocating carbon dioxide. Experts carrying out a risk assessment at the volcano's summit, said "seismicity and ground deformation continues to indicate the presence of magma under the Goma area, with an extension under Lake Kivu." "People should remain vigilant and listen to news bulletins, as the situation 'may change quickly'", it warned. A report from Friday showed that 80,000 households constituting 400,000 people had evacuated the area on Thursday after a “preventive” evacuation was ordered. Also read: Thousands flee Goma after Congo warns of possible new volcano eruption Rwandan President Paul Kagame said those evacuating needed "urgent, global support". Most of the people fled to Sake or the Rwandan border in the northeast. Many have also left the are via boat across Lake Kivu. Over 10,000 people are currently taking refuge in Bukavu along the southern bank of Lake Kivu, according to governor Theo Ngwabidje. On Friday afternoon, fresh fears erupted in the minds of people after black smoke was seen emerging from the crater. General Constant Ndima, the military governor of North Kivu province has reportedly ordered the evacuation of many districts. This affects nearly 400,000 out of Goma's 600,000 residents, according to an estimate provided by the United Nations humanitarian agency OCHA. Also read: DR Congo's Goma hit by tremors after volcanic eruption, scores still missing

'Situation may change quickly': Over 400,000 flee Congo amid fears of another volcanic eruption

The government of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Saturday that eruption of second volcano was a 'false alarm'. The government had made an announcement about the eruption just hours ago. This came just a week after Mount Nyiragongo erupted causing devastation and mass exodus.

The government had said that Murara volcano had a "low intensity" eruption on Saturday morning sending lava flowing into an uninhabited area of Virunga Park.&nbsp;

Virunga Park is a wildlife reserve home to a quarter of the world's critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Murara is a small volcano considered to be a crater of Mount Nyamuragira, which along with Nyiragongo is known for strong volcanic activity.

However, the communications ministry then issued another statement saying "false alarm on Nyamuragira".

"A plane has just flown over the entire area on the sides of this volcano. No eruption was observed," it added.

"It was instead intense activities of carbonising wood into charcoal, the smoke of which was perceived as volcanic activity."&nbsp;

Aerial images of Nyamuragira taken Saturday morning and viewed by AFP showed just a few wisps of white smoke in the volcano's crater.

Murara rises 25 kilometres (15 miles) north of Goma, capital of North Kivu province.

Mass evacuation

City in the shadow of Nyiragongo, Africa's most active volcano is still living in fear since the eruption on last Saturday. The strato-volcano spewed rivers of lava that claimed nearly three dozen lives and destroyed the homes of some 20,000 people before the eruption stopped.

Hundreds of aftershocks have rocked the region since and around 400,000 people have been evacuated from Goma.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Saturday that eruption of second volcano was a 'false alarm'. The government had made an announcement about the eruption just hours ago.

The government of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Saturday that eruption of second volcano was a 'false alarm'. The government had made an announcement about the eruption just hours ago. This came just a week after Mount Nyiragongo erupted causing devastation and mass exodus. The government had said that Murara volcano had a "low intensity" eruption on Saturday morning sending lava flowing into an uninhabited area of Virunga Park. Virunga Park is a wildlife reserve home to a quarter of the world's critically endangered mountain gorillas. Murara is a small volcano considered to be a crater of Mount Nyamuragira, which along with Nyiragongo is known for strong volcanic activity. However, the communications ministry then issued another statement saying "false alarm on Nyamuragira". "A plane has just flown over the entire area on the sides of this volcano. No eruption was observed," it added. "It was instead intense activities of carbonising wood into charcoal, the smoke of which was perceived as volcanic activity." Aerial images of Nyamuragira taken Saturday morning and viewed by AFP showed just a few wisps of white smoke in the volcano's crater. Murara rises 25 kilometres (15 miles) north of Goma, capital of North Kivu province. Mass evacuation City in the shadow of Nyiragongo, Africa's most active volcano is still living in fear since the eruption on last Saturday. The strato-volcano spewed rivers of lava that claimed nearly three dozen lives and destroyed the homes of some 20,000 people before the eruption stopped. Hundreds of aftershocks have rocked the region since and around 400,000 people have been evacuated from Goma. (With inputs from agencies)

Warning on second DR Congo volcano eruption a 'false alarm'

Volcanic eruption illuminated the night sky in Iceland, drawing thousands to behold a fiery spectacle, as red hot lava bubbles streamed out of the Europe's most active volcano Mount Etna.

Mount Etna's red lava  illuminates night sky

Thousands of people scrambled to flee the&nbsp;Congolese city of Goma on Thursday, some picking their way across landscapes scarred with lava after officials said a second volcanic eruption could happen any time.

Magma, the molten rock that normally stays beneath the earth's crust, had been detected beneath the city and the adjoining Lake Kivu, Constant Ndima Kongba, the military governor of North Kivu province, said, citing seismic and ground deformation data.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dr-congos-goma-hit-by-tremors-after-volcanic-eruption-scores-still-missing-387191">DR Congo's Goma hit by tremors after volcanic eruption, scores still missing</a>&nbsp;

"Given these scientific observations, an eruption on land or under the lake cannot be ruled out at present, and it could occur with very little or no warning," he said.

Thirty-one people were killed on Saturday evening when Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, sent a wall of orange lava downhill towards the city, destroying 17 villages on the way.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-congos-mount-nyiragongo-is-one-of-africas-most-dangerous-volcanoes-387114">Why Congo's Mount Nyiragongo is one of Africa's most dangerous volcanoes</a>

The lava stopped just 300 metres short of Goma airport, the main hub for aid operations in the eastern Democratic Republic of&nbsp;Congo. Much of the city was spared but hundreds of earthquakes since have destroyed buildings and opened cracks in the earth.

Ten neighbourhoods in the east of the city, which lay in the path of lava from the previous eruption in 2002, needed to move to Sake, around 13 miles (21 km) to the northwest, Ndima said.

"Evacuation is compulsory. Those who do not adhere swiftly carry unnecessary risks."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tourists-and-gorillas-safe-after-drc-volcano-eruption-386918">Tourists and gorillas 'safe' after DRC volcano eruption</a>

Thousands of people heeded his message, filing out of town on foot, with huge bundles on their heads. Others fled by car, creating traffic jams across the city, or on large boats that took them across Lake Kivu.

On the road north of Goma, a stream of people picked their way across a landscape charred by lava still hot from Saturday's eruption, drone video footage showed.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lava-stops-short-of-congo-city-after-volcanic-eruption-386816">Lava stops short of Congo city after volcanic eruption</a>

"The first day I didn't move because there were no orders, but today it's different," said Alfred Bulangalire, 42, who was fleeing Goma on foot with his wife and four children.

"I know that my shop will be looted, but I have to protect myself and my family," he said.

Lake Risks

A spokesman for the national government said at one point that boat traffic had been banned because Lake Kivu was considered dangerous, but a local governor later said the lake would remain open.

Volcanologists in Goma warned earlier on Thursday that, in a worst-case scenario, a volcanic eruption under the lake, accompanied by a large earthquake, could trigger a sudden release of carbon dioxide from the bottom of the lake.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/congo-volcano-leaves-death-and-smoking-wreckage-but-major-city-spared-387060">Congo volcano leaves death and smoking wreckage, but major city spared&nbsp;</a>

Such an explosion could asphyxiate thousands of people, they said.

"Faced with this spectrum of dangers ... the only option has been to protect human lives and keep the population out of the path of the lava flows," government spokesman Patrick Muyaya told journalists.

Goma's Heal Africa hospital, which was re-built on hardened lava from the 2002 eruption, has sent its patients to other facilities in town, its director, Serge Kahatwa, told Reuters.

"Other hospitals are full so it's a big problem right now. They are overwhelmed," he said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volcanic-eruption-in-congo-leaves-over-20000-people-homeless-387607">Volcanic eruption in Congo leaves over 20,000 people homeless</a>

Diego Zorrilla, the UN's deputy humanitarian coordinator in&nbsp;Congo, said UN&nbsp;agencies were accelerating plans announced on Wednesday to temporarily relocate around 250 non-essential staff, around half of their aid workers.

Congo&nbsp;imposed martial law on the region earlier this month to try to stem the bloodshed and widespread insecurity many people still face every day, long after the official end of a civil war in 2003.

Around 3,000 houses were destroyed in Saturday's volcanic eruption and more than 20,000 people left homeless. At least 40 people are still missing.

Thousands of people scrambled to flee the Congolese city of Goma on Thursday, some picking their way across landscapes scarred with lava after officials said a second volcanic eruption could happen any time.

Thousands of people scrambled to flee the Congolese city of Goma on Thursday, some picking their way across landscapes scarred with lava after officials said a second volcanic eruption could happen any time. Magma, the molten rock that normally stays beneath the earth's crust, had been detected beneath the city and the adjoining Lake Kivu, Constant Ndima Kongba, the military governor of North Kivu province, said, citing seismic and ground deformation data. Also Read | DR Congo's Goma hit by tremors after volcanic eruption, scores still missing "Given these scientific observations, an eruption on land or under the lake cannot be ruled out at present, and it could occur with very little or no warning," he said. Thirty-one people were killed on Saturday evening when Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, sent a wall of orange lava downhill towards the city, destroying 17 villages on the way. Also Read | Why Congo's Mount Nyiragongo is one of Africa's most dangerous volcanoes The lava stopped just 300 metres short of Goma airport, the main hub for aid operations in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Much of the city was spared but hundreds of earthquakes since have destroyed buildings and opened cracks in the earth. Ten neighbourhoods in the east of the city, which lay in the path of lava from the previous eruption in 2002, needed to move to Sake, around 13 miles (21 km) to the northwest, Ndima said. "Evacuation is compulsory. Those who do not adhere swiftly carry unnecessary risks." Also Read | Tourists and gorillas 'safe' after DRC volcano eruption Thousands of people heeded his message, filing out of town on foot, with huge bundles on their heads. Others fled by car, creating traffic jams across the city, or on large boats that took them across Lake Kivu. On the road north of Goma, a stream of people picked their way across a landscape charred by lava still hot from Saturday's eruption, drone video footage showed. Also Read | Lava stops short of Congo city after volcanic eruption "The first day I didn't move because there were no orders, but today it's different," said Alfred Bulangalire, 42, who was fleeing Goma on foot with his wife and four children. "I know that my shop will be looted, but I have to protect myself and my family," he said. Lake Risks A spokesman for the national government said at one point that boat traffic had been banned because Lake Kivu was considered dangerous, but a local governor later said the lake would remain open. Volcanologists in Goma warned earlier on Thursday that, in a worst-case scenario, a volcanic eruption under the lake, accompanied by a large earthquake, could trigger a sudden release of carbon dioxide from the bottom of the lake. Also Read | Congo volcano leaves death and smoking wreckage, but major city spared Such an explosion could asphyxiate thousands of people, they said. "Faced with this spectrum of dangers ... the only option has been to protect human lives and keep the population out of the path of the lava flows," government spokesman Patrick Muyaya told journalists. Goma's Heal Africa hospital, which was re-built on hardened lava from the 2002 eruption, has sent its patients to other facilities in town, its director, Serge Kahatwa, told Reuters. "Other hospitals are full so it's a big problem right now. They are overwhelmed," he said. Also Read | Volcanic eruption in Congo leaves over 20,000 people homeless Diego Zorrilla, the UN's deputy humanitarian coordinator in Congo, said UN agencies were accelerating plans announced on Wednesday to temporarily relocate around 250 non-essential staff, around half of their aid workers. Congo imposed martial law on the region earlier this month to try to stem the bloodshed and widespread insecurity many people still face every day, long after the official end of a civil war in 2003. Around 3,000 houses were destroyed in Saturday's volcanic eruption and more than 20,000 people left homeless. At least 40 people are still missing.

Thousands flee Goma after Congo warns of possible new volcano eruption

Repeated tremors shook the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday, unnerving families still reeling from a volcano eruption at the weekend that destroyed nearby villages, displaced thousands and killed at least 32 people.&nbsp;

Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world's most active and dangerous volcanoes, erupted on Saturday evening, sending a smouldering wall of lava half a mile wide downhill towards the city of two million people.&nbsp;

The lava flow stopped a few hundred metres short of the city limits, but wrecked 17 villages on the way, cut the principal electricity supply and blocked a major road, disrupting aid deliveries.&nbsp;

The death toll rose to 32 on Monday, including seven killed by lava, three by smoke, two asphyxiated by volcanic gas and four who&nbsp;died while trying to escape Munzenze prison in Goma, said Joseph Makundi, the head of civil defence in North Kivu province.&nbsp;

A string of small earthquakes has since struck the city, the surrounding region in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and across the border into Rwanda.&nbsp;

One reached a 5.1 magnitude at 10:37 am (0837 GMT) on Monday, according to the Rwanda Seismic Monitor, which is managed by the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board.&nbsp;

Shops briefly reopened in Goma on Monday but many closed again as the tremors grew more severe and residents worried that these could trigger another eruption.&nbsp;

Tremors struck every 30 minutes in the city from midday on Sunday. In Rwanda, a reporter saw several buildings damaged by the tremors.&nbsp;

Dario Tedesco, a volcanologist based in Goma, told the lava lake in the volcano has refilled, having emptied before the initial eruption on Saturday evening, although its significance was as yet unclear.&nbsp;

"The danger is small at the moment, but the earthquakes are an immediate danger as they could open another fracture, so this is why I'm a little bit worried. We have to be very careful," he said.&nbsp;

Authorities in Goma also urged caution.&nbsp;

"In view of the earthquake, which is becoming more severe, parents are asked not to send their children to school until further notice," army spokesman Guillaume Ndjike said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Repeated tremors shook the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday, unnerving families still reeling from a volcano eruption at the weekend that destroyed nearby villages, displaced thousands and killed at least 32 people.

Repeated tremors shook the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday, unnerving families still reeling from a volcano eruption at the weekend that destroyed nearby villages, displaced thousands and killed at least 32 people. Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world's most active and dangerous volcanoes, erupted on Saturday evening, sending a smouldering wall of lava half a mile wide downhill towards the city of two million people. The lava flow stopped a few hundred metres short of the city limits, but wrecked 17 villages on the way, cut the principal electricity supply and blocked a major road, disrupting aid deliveries. The death toll rose to 32 on Monday, including seven killed by lava, three by smoke, two asphyxiated by volcanic gas and four who died while trying to escape Munzenze prison in Goma, said Joseph Makundi, the head of civil defence in North Kivu province. A string of small earthquakes has since struck the city, the surrounding region in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and across the border into Rwanda. One reached a 5.1 magnitude at 10:37 am (0837 GMT) on Monday, according to the Rwanda Seismic Monitor, which is managed by the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board. Shops briefly reopened in Goma on Monday but many closed again as the tremors grew more severe and residents worried that these could trigger another eruption. Tremors struck every 30 minutes in the city from midday on Sunday. In Rwanda, a reporter saw several buildings damaged by the tremors. Dario Tedesco, a volcanologist based in Goma, told the lava lake in the volcano has refilled, having emptied before the initial eruption on Saturday evening, although its significance was as yet unclear. "The danger is small at the moment, but the earthquakes are an immediate danger as they could open another fracture, so this is why I'm a little bit worried. We have to be very careful," he said. Authorities in Goma also urged caution. "In view of the earthquake, which is becoming more severe, parents are asked not to send their children to school until further notice," army spokesman Guillaume Ndjike said. (With inputs from agencies)

DR Congo's Goma hit by tremors after volcanic eruption, scores still missing 

A volcanic eruption in eastern Congo left a smoking trail of destruction half a mile wide on Sunday that buried hundreds of houses and left residents searching for missing loved ones, before halting just short of the city of Goma.&nbsp;

Goma was thrown into panic on Saturday evening as Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world's most active and dangerous volcanoes, erupted, turning the night sky an eerie red and sending a wall of orange lava downhill towards the lakeside city of about two million people.&nbsp;

Fifteen were killed, including nine in a traffic accident as residents fled, four, who tried to escape Munzenze prison in Goma and two, who were burned to death, government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said in a statement.&nbsp;

That figure will likely rise considerably. A reporter saw two people getting killed by the initial eruption in a village north of Goma, and witnesses spoke of dead and missing relatives.&nbsp;

Haunted by memories of an eruption in 2002 that killed 250 people and left 120,000 homeless, residents fled on foot with their belongings, some towards the nearby border with Rwanda.&nbsp;

The International Federation of Red Cross said that between 3,000 and 5,000 fled into Rwanda on Saturday, many of them peasants and farmers with livestock. Some began returning on Sunday.&nbsp;

The eruption was caused when fractures opened in the volcano's side, causing lava flows in various directions.&nbsp;

As the sun rose on Sunday a smouldering black gash about half a mile wide could be seen on the outskirts of Goma, where the lava had cooled to rubble.&nbsp;

At some points it was three-storey high, engulfing even large buildings and sending smoke into the grey morning sky.&nbsp;

Residents in the Buhene district sorted through the mangled white remains of tin roofs or lifted rocks - tiny individual efforts in what will likely be a months-long campaign to restore the zone.&nbsp;

Elsewhere, groups of people posed for photos on the steaming lava.&nbsp;

In all, seventeen villages were hit, Muyaya said, and three health centres, a primary school and a water pipeline were destroyed.&nbsp;

Lava crossed a main road running north from Goma, severing a key aid and supply route, and the city's principle supply of electricity, delivered along a line run by the Congolese Water and Electricity Distribution Company, was cut.&nbsp;

A government delegation has been dispatched to Goma to help in the response, he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A volcanic eruption in eastern Congo left a smoking trail of destruction half a mile wide on Sunday that buried hundreds of houses and left residents searching for missing loved ones, before halting just short of the city of Goma.

A volcanic eruption in eastern Congo left a smoking trail of destruction half a mile wide on Sunday that buried hundreds of houses and left residents searching for missing loved ones, before halting just short of the city of Goma. Goma was thrown into panic on Saturday evening as Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world's most active and dangerous volcanoes, erupted, turning the night sky an eerie red and sending a wall of orange lava downhill towards the lakeside city of about two million people. Fifteen were killed, including nine in a traffic accident as residents fled, four, who tried to escape Munzenze prison in Goma and two, who were burned to death, government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said in a statement. That figure will likely rise considerably. A reporter saw two people getting killed by the initial eruption in a village north of Goma, and witnesses spoke of dead and missing relatives. Haunted by memories of an eruption in 2002 that killed 250 people and left 120,000 homeless, residents fled on foot with their belongings, some towards the nearby border with Rwanda. The International Federation of Red Cross said that between 3,000 and 5,000 fled into Rwanda on Saturday, many of them peasants and farmers with livestock. Some began returning on Sunday. The eruption was caused when fractures opened in the volcano's side, causing lava flows in various directions. As the sun rose on Sunday a smouldering black gash about half a mile wide could be seen on the outskirts of Goma, where the lava had cooled to rubble. At some points it was three-storey high, engulfing even large buildings and sending smoke into the grey morning sky. Residents in the Buhene district sorted through the mangled white remains of tin roofs or lifted rocks - tiny individual efforts in what will likely be a months-long campaign to restore the zone. Elsewhere, groups of people posed for photos on the steaming lava. In all, seventeen villages were hit, Muyaya said, and three health centres, a primary school and a water pipeline were destroyed. Lava crossed a main road running north from Goma, severing a key aid and supply route, and the city's principle supply of electricity, delivered along a line run by the Congolese Water and Electricity Distribution Company, was cut. A government delegation has been dispatched to Goma to help in the response, he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Congo volcano leaves death and smoking wreckage, but major city spared 

Congo’s Mount Nyiragongo volcano erupted for the first time in nearly two decades, turning the night sky a fiery red and sending lava onto a major highway as panicked residents tried to flee Goma.

Congo's Mount Nyiragongo volcano erupts after nearly 2 decades

Tourists&nbsp;who were near the crater the Nyiragongo&nbsp;volcano&nbsp;in the Democratic Republic Congo erupted are&nbsp;safe, the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN) said Sunday.

Nor were the rare mountain&nbsp;gorillas&nbsp;in the Virunga National Park threatened by the&nbsp;eruption, the institute added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lava-stops-short-of-congo-city-after-volcanic-eruption-386816">Lava stops short of Congo city after volcanic eruption</a>

"The&nbsp;tourists&nbsp;present yesterday at the crater are&nbsp;safe&nbsp;and sound", the institute, which oversees the wildlife sanctuary, said on Twitter, without indicating their numbers or nationalities.

The park, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, covers 600,000 hectares (1.5 million acres) of tropical rainforest that is notably home to the world's biggest population of eastern lowland&nbsp;gorillas.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congo-volcanic-eruption-indian-peacekeepers-play-key-role-in-saving-civilians-un-assets-386893">Congo volcanic eruption: Indian peacekeepers play key role in saving civilians, UN assets</a>

The Nyiragongo&nbsp;volcano, whose slopes of which dominate the city of Goma and Lake Kivu, erupted suddenly on Saturday night, sending thousands of residents fleeing in panic.

A vast river of molten lava came to a halt Sunday on the outskirts of Goma, sparing the city.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lava-stops-short-of-congo-city-after-volcanic-eruption-386816">Lava stops short of Congo city after volcanic eruption</a>

The Goma region is a zone of intense seismic activity, with six volcanos, including Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira, which rise to 3,470 and 3,058 metres (11,384 and 10,033 feet) respectively.

Eruptions are frequent, not just from craters but from the sides of the volcanos.

Tourists who were near the crater the Nyiragongo volcano in the Democratic Republic Congo erupted are safe, the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN) said Sunday.

Tourists who were near the crater the Nyiragongo volcano in the Democratic Republic Congo erupted are safe, the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN) said Sunday. Nor were the rare mountain gorillas in the Virunga National Park threatened by the eruption, the institute added. Also Read | Lava stops short of Congo city after volcanic eruption "The tourists present yesterday at the crater are safe and sound", the institute, which oversees the wildlife sanctuary, said on Twitter, without indicating their numbers or nationalities. The park, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, covers 600,000 hectares (1.5 million acres) of tropical rainforest that is notably home to the world's biggest population of eastern lowland gorillas. Also Read | Congo volcanic eruption: Indian peacekeepers play key role in saving civilians, UN assets The Nyiragongo volcano, whose slopes of which dominate the city of Goma and Lake Kivu, erupted suddenly on Saturday night, sending thousands of residents fleeing in panic. A vast river of molten lava came to a halt Sunday on the outskirts of Goma, sparing the city. Also Read | Lava stops short of Congo city after volcanic eruption The Goma region is a zone of intense seismic activity, with six volcanos, including Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira, which rise to 3,470 and 3,058 metres (11,384 and 10,033 feet) respectively. Eruptions are frequent, not just from craters but from the sides of the volcanos.

Tourists and gorillas 'safe' after DRC volcano eruption

A smoking trail of lava from a volcanic eruption appeared to have halted a few hundred metres from the edge of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's main city on Sunday morning.

Goma, a lakeside city of about two million people, was thrown into panic on Saturday evening as the nearby Mount Nyiragongo erupted, turning the night sky an eerie red. Thousands fled with their belongings on foot, some towards the nearby border with Rwanda.

As the sun rose on Sunday, much of the hillside to the north of the town was burned black and houses had been demolished. The sky was again a cloudy gray.

"Local authorities who have been monitoring the eruption overnight report that the lava flow has lost intensity," government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said on Twitter on Sunday.

Nyiragongo's previous eruption in 2002 killed 250 people and left 120,000 homeless. It is one of the world's most active volcanoes and is considered among the most dangerous. Saturday's eruption appears to have been caused when fractures opened in the volcano's side, causing lava flows in various directions.

Experts were worried that the volcanic activity observed in the past five years at Nyiragongo mirrors that in the years preceding eruptions in 1977 and 2002.

The lava flow had stopped short of Goma's airport and the city limits but that surrounding villages were hit.&nbsp;Lava crossed a main road out of Goma, cutting if off from cities to the north. Traffic was in gridlock in most places as people tried to leave or return to assess the damage to their homes.

It was not possible to estimate material damage or if anyone had died.&nbsp;A separate lava flow that headed east over unpopulated terrain towards Rwanda also appeared to have stopped.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A smoking trail of lava from a volcanic eruption appeared to have halted a few hundred metres from the edge of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's main city on Sunday morning.

A smoking trail of lava from a volcanic eruption appeared to have halted a few hundred metres from the edge of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's main city on Sunday morning. Goma, a lakeside city of about two million people, was thrown into panic on Saturday evening as the nearby Mount Nyiragongo erupted, turning the night sky an eerie red. Thousands fled with their belongings on foot, some towards the nearby border with Rwanda. As the sun rose on Sunday, much of the hillside to the north of the town was burned black and houses had been demolished. The sky was again a cloudy gray. "Local authorities who have been monitoring the eruption overnight report that the lava flow has lost intensity," government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said on Twitter on Sunday. Nyiragongo's previous eruption in 2002 killed 250 people and left 120,000 homeless. It is one of the world's most active volcanoes and is considered among the most dangerous. Saturday's eruption appears to have been caused when fractures opened in the volcano's side, causing lava flows in various directions. Experts were worried that the volcanic activity observed in the past five years at Nyiragongo mirrors that in the years preceding eruptions in 1977 and 2002. The lava flow had stopped short of Goma's airport and the city limits but that surrounding villages were hit. Lava crossed a main road out of Goma, cutting if off from cities to the north. Traffic was in gridlock in most places as people tried to leave or return to assess the damage to their homes. It was not possible to estimate material damage or if anyone had died. A separate lava flow that headed east over unpopulated terrain towards Rwanda also appeared to have stopped. (With inputs from agencies)

Lava stops short of Congo city after volcanic eruption

The lush volcanic hills surrounding Volvic in central France have long been a source of mineral water prized worldwide, but locals and geologists warn that too much is now being pumped out, putting the entire region at risk.

"We used to have water up to our knees and the stream could turn two mills," said Pierre Grodecoeur, 69, pointing out the flow outside the house where he was born in Les Moulins Blancs.

The mills are long gone, Grodecoeur said, and these days the stream bed is often dry.

His village in the Auvergne region is just down the road from the hulking Volvic bottling plant owned by French food and beverage giant Danone.

Since 2014, the government has allowed Danone to bottle up to 2.8 million cubic metres a year -- or 2.8 billion one-litre bottles.

That translates into an extraction of nearly 89 litres per second from the Volvic water table, compared with just 15.6 litres when bottling operations first began in 1965.

But at the nearby fish hatchery of Saint-Genest-l'Enfant, a registered landmark dating from the 17th century where the Volvic source naturally emerges, there are now some months when no water flows at all.

The owner, Edouard de Feligonde, had to shut down the fishery a few years ago after duckweed formed slick green films over basins that became stagnant for lack of current.

"Danone is destroying a historical monument so that it can send its bits of plastic to the other side of the world," said Feligonde, who is waging a legal battle against the multinational with the lawyer and former environment minister Corinne Lepage.

'Desertification'

Robert Durand, a geologist, told AFP that the average flow rate at the Volvic source had fallen to 50 litres per second, far below the 470 litres per second measured in 1927.

Water shortages are already impacting the region's biodiversity by reducing the natural humidity of the forested hills.

"It can be described as the beginning of a desertification," said Christian Amblard, an expert with France's CNRS research institute in Clermont-Ferrand, the historic capital of Auvergne.

He cited declines in black alder trees and the siskin songbirds that nest in them, and in ash trees and golden orioles.

"Only the hand of man and Volvic are responsible," he said.

Laurent Campos-Hugueney, a farmer and member of the Water is a Public Good collective, said streams around Volvic no longer flow strongly enough to support irrigation.

"There hasn't been any plant or vegetable operations in the area for several years," he said.

But Jerome Gros, director at the Volvic bottling site, disputed the claim that his operations were sucking the waterbed dry and said Danone was investing heavily in protecting the source.

"We have saved 380 million litres between 2017 and 2020 even as sales remained stable," Gros told AFP.

In 2014, for example, Volvic needed to pump out two litres to fill a one-litre bottle, with the excess used for sterilising and rinsing equipment.&nbsp;

"Today we're down to just 1.4 litres for every litre bottled," he said.&nbsp;

'Shooting itself in the foot'

Critics are not convinced, noting that Volvic pumps up water from up to 100 metres deep, and that stream depletions cannot be ascribed to the weather since rainfall has remained steady over the past years.

"It's like you're emptying a bathtub from the bottom," said Francois-Dominique de Larouziere, a geologist who is member of the local Preva environmental preservation group.

Authorities have also allowed Volvic to spread its volume allotment over the entire year, meaning it can pump more in summer when demand spikes, leaving everyone else high and dry.

The government's top official for the region, Philippe Chopin, told a parliamentary commission in April that "environmental conditions, in particular drought, caused a drop in the aquifer that we do not believe can be blamed" on Volvic's extractions.&nbsp;

His assertions were rejected by many in Volvic, where the issuance of building permits was suspended last August because of the risk of drinking water shortages -- though the mayor denied any proof that Volvic's operations were the cause.

"How can you tell people they can't water three tomato plants in the middle of summer, when they see full trucks leaving this factory?" De Larouziere said.&nbsp;

"Danone is shooting itself in the foot, but when the faucet stops running, it's going to be painful."

The lush volcanic hills surrounding Volvic in central France have long been a source of mineral water prized worldwide, but locals and geologists warn that too much is now being pumped out, putting the entire region at risk.

The lush volcanic hills surrounding Volvic in central France have long been a source of mineral water prized worldwide, but locals and geologists warn that too much is now being pumped out, putting the entire region at risk. "We used to have water up to our knees and the stream could turn two mills," said Pierre Grodecoeur, 69, pointing out the flow outside the house where he was born in Les Moulins Blancs. The mills are long gone, Grodecoeur said, and these days the stream bed is often dry. His village in the Auvergne region is just down the road from the hulking Volvic bottling plant owned by French food and beverage giant Danone. Since 2014, the government has allowed Danone to bottle up to 2.8 million cubic metres a year -- or 2.8 billion one-litre bottles. That translates into an extraction of nearly 89 litres per second from the Volvic water table, compared with just 15.6 litres when bottling operations first began in 1965. But at the nearby fish hatchery of Saint-Genest-l'Enfant, a registered landmark dating from the 17th century where the Volvic source naturally emerges, there are now some months when no water flows at all. The owner, Edouard de Feligonde, had to shut down the fishery a few years ago after duckweed formed slick green films over basins that became stagnant for lack of current. "Danone is destroying a historical monument so that it can send its bits of plastic to the other side of the world," said Feligonde, who is waging a legal battle against the multinational with the lawyer and former environment minister Corinne Lepage. 'Desertification' Robert Durand, a geologist, told AFP that the average flow rate at the Volvic source had fallen to 50 litres per second, far below the 470 litres per second measured in 1927. Water shortages are already impacting the region's biodiversity by reducing the natural humidity of the forested hills. "It can be described as the beginning of a desertification," said Christian Amblard, an expert with France's CNRS research institute in Clermont-Ferrand, the historic capital of Auvergne. He cited declines in black alder trees and the siskin songbirds that nest in them, and in ash trees and golden orioles. "Only the hand of man and Volvic are responsible," he said. Laurent Campos-Hugueney, a farmer and member of the Water is a Public Good collective, said streams around Volvic no longer flow strongly enough to support irrigation. "There hasn't been any plant or vegetable operations in the area for several years," he said. But Jerome Gros, director at the Volvic bottling site, disputed the claim that his operations were sucking the waterbed dry and said Danone was investing heavily in protecting the source. "We have saved 380 million litres between 2017 and 2020 even as sales remained stable," Gros told AFP. In 2014, for example, Volvic needed to pump out two litres to fill a one-litre bottle, with the excess used for sterilising and rinsing equipment. "Today we're down to just 1.4 litres for every litre bottled," he said. 'Shooting itself in the foot' Critics are not convinced, noting that Volvic pumps up water from up to 100 metres deep, and that stream depletions cannot be ascribed to the weather since rainfall has remained steady over the past years. "It's like you're emptying a bathtub from the bottom," said Francois-Dominique de Larouziere, a geologist who is member of the local Preva environmental preservation group. Authorities have also allowed Volvic to spread its volume allotment over the entire year, meaning it can pump more in summer when demand spikes, leaving everyone else high and dry. The government's top official for the region, Philippe Chopin, told a parliamentary commission in April that "environmental conditions, in particular drought, caused a drop in the aquifer that we do not believe can be blamed" on Volvic's extractions. His assertions were rejected by many in Volvic, where the issuance of building permits was suspended last August because of the risk of drinking water shortages -- though the mayor denied any proof that Volvic's operations were the cause. "How can you tell people they can't water three tomato plants in the middle of summer, when they see full trucks leaving this factory?" De Larouziere said. "Danone is shooting itself in the foot, but when the faucet stops running, it's going to be painful."

Too thirsty? France's Volvic blamed as streams run dry

The United Nations launched an appeal on Tuesday for $29.2 million to help some 15,000 people displaced when the La Soufriere volcano on the eastern Caribbean island of St Vincent erupted earlier this month.&nbsp;

"We are in a dire situation frankly ... We're not out of the woods," St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves told reporters, adding that scientists had warned eruptions could last another six months. &nbsp;

The volcano erupted on April 9 after decades of inactivity, spewing dark clouds of ash some 10 km (6 miles) into the air and prompting the evacuation of thousands of people. The volcano has continued to rumble and vent ash.&nbsp;

Didier Trebucq, the UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, visited the affected areas two days ago with Gonsalves and described the scene as "apocalyptic." He said the UN appeal was to scale up assistance for six months.&nbsp;

St Vincent and the Grenadines, which has a population of just over 100,000, has not experienced volcanic activity since 1979, when an eruption resulted in about $100 million in damages. An eruption by La Soufriere in 1902 killed more than 1,000 people. The name means 'sulfur outlet' in French.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United Nations launched an appeal on Tuesday for $29.2 million to help some 15,000 people displaced when the La Soufriere volcano on the eastern Caribbean island of St Vincent erupted earlier this month.

The United Nations launched an appeal on Tuesday for $29.2 million to help some 15,000 people displaced when the La Soufriere volcano on the eastern Caribbean island of St Vincent erupted earlier this month. "We are in a dire situation frankly ... We're not out of the woods," St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves told reporters, adding that scientists had warned eruptions could last another six months. The volcano erupted on April 9 after decades of inactivity, spewing dark clouds of ash some 10 km (6 miles) into the air and prompting the evacuation of thousands of people. The volcano has continued to rumble and vent ash. Didier Trebucq, the UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, visited the affected areas two days ago with Gonsalves and described the scene as "apocalyptic." He said the UN appeal was to scale up assistance for six months. St Vincent and the Grenadines, which has a population of just over 100,000, has not experienced volcanic activity since 1979, when an eruption resulted in about $100 million in damages. An eruption by La Soufriere in 1902 killed more than 1,000 people. The name means 'sulfur outlet' in French. (With inputs from agencies)

UN asks for $29.2 million to help after Caribbean volcano eruption 

Another explosive event from La Soufriere volcano triggered power cuts and water outages in some areas of Sanit Vincent island, while ash clouds began to cover parts of Barbados islands.

The volcano erupted on Friday after decades of inactivity. The eruption spewed dark clouds of ash 10 km into the air. This prompted evacuation of thousands of people on the island. The volcano has continued to vent ash afterward.

On Sunday morning, Saint Vincent's National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) said there was a huge power outage after "another explosive event" at the volcano. However, by 12 p.m. ET (1600 GMT), power had been restored, residents said.

"Explosions and accompanying ashfall, of similar or larger magnitude, are likely to continue to occur over the next few days," the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre said on Twitter.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which has a population of just over 100,000, has not experienced volcanic activity since 1979, when an eruption created approximately $100 million in damages. An eruption by La Soufriere in 1902 killed more than 1,000 people. The name means "sulfur outlet" in French.

Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves said the government believes about 20,000 people will be internally displaced for about three to four months.

"Historically, the volcano keeps going intermittently for a couple months," he said. "Most crops on island will be lost, and untold livestock."

(With AFP inputs)

Another explosive event from La Soufriere volcano triggered power cuts and water outages in some areas of Sanit Vincent island, while ash clouds began to cover parts of Barbados islands.

Another explosive event from La Soufriere volcano triggered power cuts and water outages in some areas of Sanit Vincent island, while ash clouds began to cover parts of Barbados islands. The volcano erupted on Friday after decades of inactivity. The eruption spewed dark clouds of ash 10 km into the air. This prompted evacuation of thousands of people on the island. The volcano has continued to vent ash afterward. On Sunday morning, Saint Vincent's National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) said there was a huge power outage after "another explosive event" at the volcano. However, by 12 p.m. ET (1600 GMT), power had been restored, residents said. "Explosions and accompanying ashfall, of similar or larger magnitude, are likely to continue to occur over the next few days," the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre said on Twitter. St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which has a population of just over 100,000, has not experienced volcanic activity since 1979, when an eruption created approximately $100 million in damages. An eruption by La Soufriere in 1902 killed more than 1,000 people. The name means "sulfur outlet" in French. Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves said the government believes about 20,000 people will be internally displaced for about three to four months. "Historically, the volcano keeps going intermittently for a couple months," he said. "Most crops on island will be lost, and untold livestock." (With AFP inputs)

Power outages on St Vincent island amid volcano tremors

After volcanic eruption, ash spreads across St Vincent in Caribbean

More fissures have opened up in the volcano in Iceland three weeks after its eruption. A third eruption fissure opened up on Tuesday in between the twp already existing ones.

Drone footage filmed on Friday showed the second fissure surrounded by blanket of snow

The volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula, some 30 kilometres southwest of the capital Reykjavik, started to erupt on March 19 and has become a tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors.

Volcanologists have no idea how long the eruption will continue, saying it could stop soon or continue for years, possibly even decades.

(With Reuters inputs)

More fissures have opened up in the volcano in Iceland three weeks after its eruption. A third eruption fissure opened up on Tuesday in between the twp already existing ones.

More fissures have opened up in the volcano in Iceland three weeks after its eruption. A third eruption fissure opened up on Tuesday in between the twp already existing ones. Drone footage filmed on Friday showed the second fissure surrounded by blanket of snow The volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula, some 30 kilometres southwest of the capital Reykjavik, started to erupt on March 19 and has become a tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors. Volcanologists have no idea how long the eruption will continue, saying it could stop soon or continue for years, possibly even decades. (With Reuters inputs)

Iceland: Third lava stream opens up in erupting volcano

Ash covered much of the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent on Saturday, and the stench of sulphur filled the air after a series of eruptions from a volcano that had been quiet for decades.

The whitish powder caked roads, homes and buildings after the powerful blasts from the volcano called La Soufriere that began Friday and continued into the night.

"Saturday morning on the island of over 110,000 residents looked like a winter wonderland, albeit blanketed by ash," the news portal news784.com said.

Visibility in some areas was extremely limited, while in the capital city Kingstown on the south of the island -- the volcano is in the north -- the ash caused a thin haze of dust, the portal said.

"Vincentians are waking up to extremely heavy ash fall and strong sulphur smells which have now advanced to the capital," the local emergency management agency tweeted.

The eruptions prompted thousands of people to flee for safety. Around 16,000 people live in areas that are now under evacuation orders.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said Saturday that water has been cut off in most areas and the country's air space is closed because of the ash. Around 3,000 people spent the night in shelters.

"It's a huge operation that is facing us," Gonsalves told NBC News.

He said his government has been in contact with other countries that want to provide aid. Guyana and Venezuela are sending ships with supplies, Gonsalves said. &nbsp;

The initial blast from La Soufriere, the highest peak in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, sent plumes of hot ash and smoke 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) into the air Friday morning.

A second, smaller eruption took place Friday afternoon, belching out a 4,000-meter-high ash cloud, the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre said.

The 1,235-meter La Soufriere -- the name is French for "sulphur mine" -- had not erupted since 1979, and its largest blow-up happened over a century ago, killing more than 1,000 people in 1902.

It had been rumbling for months before it finally blew.

Evacuation orders

Zen Punnett, who lives on the 30-kilometer-long island, said people panicked Thursday night as the evacuation orders came out, but things were calmer Friday.

"I can feel and hear rumbling here in the green safe zone. We can see a huge ball of smoke. Keeping calm as much as possible and praying," Punnett said Friday.

As of early Friday afternoon, most of the people in the red zone had been moved to safety, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency said.

Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises said they were sending two ships to assist the evacuation effort.&nbsp;

'Scared out of their wits'

Gonsalves said Friday that more ships from cruise liner company Carnival were also on their way.

Those evacuated would be taken to shelters elsewhere in the island chain or other Caribbean territories that have offered assistance, such as Barbados and Saint Lucia, according to local media.

Philmore Mullin, director of Antigua and Barbuda's National Office of Disaster Services, told AFP the twin island nation was ready to receive evacuees from Saint Vincent.

"I know for sure they will be scared out of their wits. The question is, what will happen after they move? Volcanoes don't tell you what they are thinking," said Mullin.

"If it continues to erupt for a long time, it will be life-changing for them. And, depending on the type of eruption, they might not be able to get back home for years."

Ash covered much of the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent on Saturday, and the stench of sulphur filled the air after a series of eruptions from a volcano that had been quiet for decades.

Ash covered much of the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent on Saturday, and the stench of sulphur filled the air after a series of eruptions from a volcano that had been quiet for decades. The whitish powder caked roads, homes and buildings after the powerful blasts from the volcano called La Soufriere that began Friday and continued into the night. "Saturday morning on the island of over 110,000 residents looked like a winter wonderland, albeit blanketed by ash," the news portal news784.com said. Visibility in some areas was extremely limited, while in the capital city Kingstown on the south of the island -- the volcano is in the north -- the ash caused a thin haze of dust, the portal said. "Vincentians are waking up to extremely heavy ash fall and strong sulphur smells which have now advanced to the capital," the local emergency management agency tweeted. The eruptions prompted thousands of people to flee for safety. Around 16,000 people live in areas that are now under evacuation orders. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said Saturday that water has been cut off in most areas and the country's air space is closed because of the ash. Around 3,000 people spent the night in shelters. "It's a huge operation that is facing us," Gonsalves told NBC News. He said his government has been in contact with other countries that want to provide aid. Guyana and Venezuela are sending ships with supplies, Gonsalves said. The initial blast from La Soufriere, the highest peak in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, sent plumes of hot ash and smoke 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) into the air Friday morning. A second, smaller eruption took place Friday afternoon, belching out a 4,000-meter-high ash cloud, the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre said. The 1,235-meter La Soufriere -- the name is French for "sulphur mine" -- had not erupted since 1979, and its largest blow-up happened over a century ago, killing more than 1,000 people in 1902. It had been rumbling for months before it finally blew. Evacuation orders Zen Punnett, who lives on the 30-kilometer-long island, said people panicked Thursday night as the evacuation orders came out, but things were calmer Friday. "I can feel and hear rumbling here in the green safe zone. We can see a huge ball of smoke. Keeping calm as much as possible and praying," Punnett said Friday. As of early Friday afternoon, most of the people in the red zone had been moved to safety, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency said. Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises said they were sending two ships to assist the evacuation effort. 'Scared out of their wits' Gonsalves said Friday that more ships from cruise liner company Carnival were also on their way. Those evacuated would be taken to shelters elsewhere in the island chain or other Caribbean territories that have offered assistance, such as Barbados and Saint Lucia, according to local media. Philmore Mullin, director of Antigua and Barbuda's National Office of Disaster Services, told AFP the twin island nation was ready to receive evacuees from Saint Vincent. "I know for sure they will be scared out of their wits. The question is, what will happen after they move? Volcanoes don't tell you what they are thinking," said Mullin. "If it continues to erupt for a long time, it will be life-changing for them. And, depending on the type of eruption, they might not be able to get back home for years."

St Vincent evacuating thousands after volcano eruption, return unsure

La Soufriere volcano on the eastern Caribbean island of St Vincent erupted on Friday after decades of inactivity, sending dark plumes of ash and smoke billowing into the sky and forcing thousands from surrounding villages to evacuate.&nbsp;

Dormant since 1979, the volcano started showing signs of activity in December, spewing steam and smoke and rumbling away. That picked up this week, prompting Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines Ralph Gonsalves to order an evacuation of the surrounding area late on Thursday. &nbsp;

Early on Friday, it finally erupted. Ash and smoke plunged the neighbouring area into near total darkness, blotting out the bright morning sun, said a witness, who reported hearing the explosion from Rose Hall, a nearby village.&nbsp;

Smaller explosions continued throughout the day, Erouscilla Joseph, director at the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre, said, adding that this kind of activity could go on for weeks if not months.&nbsp;

"This is just the beginning," she said. &nbsp;

St Vincent and the Grenadines, which has a population of just over 100,000, has not experienced volcanic activity since 1979, when an eruption created approximately $100 million in damages. An eruption by La Soufriere in 1902 killed more than 1,000 people. The name means 'sulfur outlet' in French.&nbsp;

The eruption column was estimated to reach 10 km (6 miles) high, the seismic research center said. Ash fall could affect the Grenadines, Barbados, St. Lucia and Grenada.&nbsp;

"The ash plume may cause flight delays due to diversions," the center said on Twitter. "On the ground, ash can cause discomfort in persons suffering with respiratory illnesses and will impact water resources."&nbsp;

Local media have in recent days also reported increased activity from Mount Pelee on the island of Martinique, which lies to the north of St Vincent beyond St Lucia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

La Soufriere volcano on the eastern Caribbean island of St Vincent erupted on Friday after decades of inactivity, sending dark plumes of ash and smoke billowing into the sky and forcing thousands from surrounding villages to evacuate.

La Soufriere volcano on the eastern Caribbean island of St Vincent erupted on Friday after decades of inactivity, sending dark plumes of ash and smoke billowing into the sky and forcing thousands from surrounding villages to evacuate. Dormant since 1979, the volcano started showing signs of activity in December, spewing steam and smoke and rumbling away. That picked up this week, prompting Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines Ralph Gonsalves to order an evacuation of the surrounding area late on Thursday. Early on Friday, it finally erupted. Ash and smoke plunged the neighbouring area into near total darkness, blotting out the bright morning sun, said a witness, who reported hearing the explosion from Rose Hall, a nearby village. Smaller explosions continued throughout the day, Erouscilla Joseph, director at the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre, said, adding that this kind of activity could go on for weeks if not months. "This is just the beginning," she said. St Vincent and the Grenadines, which has a population of just over 100,000, has not experienced volcanic activity since 1979, when an eruption created approximately $100 million in damages. An eruption by La Soufriere in 1902 killed more than 1,000 people. The name means 'sulfur outlet' in French. The eruption column was estimated to reach 10 km (6 miles) high, the seismic research center said. Ash fall could affect the Grenadines, Barbados, St. Lucia and Grenada. "The ash plume may cause flight delays due to diversions," the center said on Twitter. "On the ground, ash can cause discomfort in persons suffering with respiratory illnesses and will impact water resources." Local media have in recent days also reported increased activity from Mount Pelee on the island of Martinique, which lies to the north of St Vincent beyond St Lucia. (With inputs from agencies)

Volcano erupts in southern Caribbean, forcing thousands to evacuate  

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