Cloud of ash and smoke above Michimahuida Volcano visible from Puerto Montt

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PUERTO MONTT. - The Mochimahuida Volcano is currently emitting a column of smoke that is visible even from Puerto Montt. The volcano, which is located some 40 kilometers to the south of Chaitén, began erupting early this morning after having remained dormant for almost two centuries. 

According to specialists from the National Geology and Mining Service (Sernageomín), the last reported eruption of the volcano was in 1835.

The natural emergency has alarmed residents, who have been on edge since Wednesday after feeling a series of small earthquakes. 

Despite the fact that authorities downplayed importance to the quakes, which totaled more than 60 the day before the eruption, locals could not stop talking about the possibility of an eruption of one of the many peaks in the area.

The town of Chaitén awoke in isolation this morning after Route 7 to the south of the village was closed due to a thick layer of ash on the road impeding traffic. Air travel in the area has also been complicated by the eruption.