Volcano spews steam and ash in Mexico

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2007

PUEBLA, Mexico (AFP) — Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano spewed ash and steam on Saturday in a giant plume stretching some 3,000 meters (two miles) high, authorities said.

The eruption southeast of Mexico City was "a major explosive event, totally different to those since the year 2000" and related to a rupture of lava inside the volcano's crater, said Ramon Pena, the director of the local government's Plan Operativo Popocatepetl.

The volcanic activity started at 6:20 am (1220 GMT) and officials issued a yellow alert, signaling no immediate risk to the local population.

Ash began falling on Puebla, the closest city to the volcano, a couple of hours after the eruption.

During the past 13 years, the volcano has become more active during the month of...