Eruption at Colombian volcano forces airport closure
BOGOTA – An eruption at the towering Nevado del Ruiz volcano has forced the closure of a regional airport in western Colombia.
Colombia’s Geological Service says bursts of ash rose nearly a mile and a half (2,300 metres) above the peak of the volcano at about 5:50 a.m. (6:50 a.m. EDT; 1050 GMT).
A somewhat smaller eruption three hours earlier prompted closure of the La Nubia airport in Manizales, capital of Caldas state.
The 17,457-foot (5,321 metre) volcano has been under close observation since a 1985 eruption killed some 25,000 people and demolished the town of Armero.
Seismologists say earth tremors indicate movement of magma within the volcano’s system.
News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Join the Conversation!
Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?
You must be logged in to post a comment.
