Lava destroys homes in DR Congo after volcanic eruption

Lava from the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo is seen in Buhene, on the outskirts of Goma (Justin Kabumba/AP)

Lava from a volcanic eruption in DR Congo has destroyed homes on the outskirts of Goma but the city of two million has been mostly spared after thousands fled in the night.

Authorities said at least five people died in a road crash while trying to leave Goma but cautioned it was too early to give a death toll in the hardest-hit communities.