Volcanic eruption in Chile, thousands evacuated

An eruption in the Puyehue-Cordon-Caulle volcano range in Chile has forced the evacuation of 3,500 residents. Both Chile and Argentina are monitoring the situation, as the winds have been spreading ash in both countries.

Chilean residents are being housed in hostels and public buildings, though some have refused to leave their homes. Argentine authorities are distributing facemasks and eyedrops inthe affected region.

For footage of the chain's eruption, see the BBC video. For further information, read the BBC article.

Detail image of the Puyehue 2011 Volcanic Eruption taken June 4 by NASA's Aqua Satellite, showing the heavy ash cloud.