The eruption of the Puyehue Cordon Caulle volcano in Rancho Province, Chile has grounded flights, prompted school closings and forced the evacuation of thousands of residents. Puyehue-Cordon Caulle began spewing smoke and ash over 6 miles into the air on Sunday afternoon. High winds have spread the ash across southern Chile and in to Argentina. Border crossings between the two countries have been closed.
Chilean authorities ordered about 3,500 people to evacuate a designated area around the volcano. Los Rios governor Juan Andres Varas warned more evacuations could be ordered as the volcanic material moves towards Nilahue Valley.
As ash began accumulating in Argentina authorities there urged residents to remain in their homes. Some areas were coated with up to 12 inches of ash. The Telam news agency reported school and airport closings. Authorities believe the ash cloud could reach Buenos Aires province by Tuesday.
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