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Hundreds evacuated as volcano erupts in Chile

By DPA

Santiago de Chile : The volcano Llaima in southern Chile has begun erupting, spewing fire and lava and forcing authorities to evacuate hundreds of tourists and residents in surrounding areas.

Since Tuesday, fire and lava was shooting up about 1,000 metres above the volcano, which is located about 700 km south of the capital Santiago de Chile.

Scientists have not ruled out that the eruption will grow stronger in the coming days. Llaima was being closely monitored by experts through aeroplanes flying around the volcano.

The 3,125 metre-high volcano is located in the volcano rich National Park Conguillio, about 80 km east of Temuco, which is the capital of the Araukanian region.

Llaima is regarded as the most active volcano in South America and has recorded 60 eruptions, the last strong one taking place in 1994 and lasting for days. The eruption was being broadcast live on television.