Llaima volcano displays new intensity

TEMUCO.-  At approximately 4 AM this morning, the Llaima volcano began displaying new, intense activity with a series of explosions occurring inside the mountain’s main crater and lava flows being observed in two areas on the western slope of the peak. 

This reactivation is the most significant episode since January 1st of this year, when the volcano registered intermittent explosions throughout the night and an emergency plan was activated in the four adjoining municipalities of Vilcún, Culco, Melipeuco and Curacuatín.

According to the Southern Andes Volcano Observatory, volcanic activity at the peak began with renewed intensity yesterday after a noticeable reduction had been observed over the previous 48 hours. 

The latest National Emergency Office (ONEMI) report indicates that the mountain blasted pyroclastic material up to approximately 400 meters high during this most recent eruption.

Three lava flows can bee seen on the mountain heading towards the Calbuco River area, which is under constant observation.  For now, the river continues to report normal water levels.