Thousands evacuated as volcano erupts in Columbia

Waking from a nap that may have lasted thousands of years, the Nevado del Huila volcano in Colombia erupted late yesterday and early today, provoking avalanches and floodings that swept away houses and bridges and prompted the evacuation of thousands, authorities said.

“The best news, up to now, is that we have no reports of injuries or deaths, Luz Amanda Pulido, director of the national disaster office, said after flying over the towering volcano located in south-west Colombia.