Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The San Cristobal volcano spewed out a column of ash and gas two and a half miles high, leading Nicaraguan authorities to evacuate about 3,000 people from nine communities around the country's tallest mountain.
Residents reported hearing three powerful explosions in the volcano as the cloud began billowing skyward and ash drifted over nearby villages.
"This activity could affect some 500 families totalling 3,000 people, so we decided to evacuate them," said Guillermo Gonzalez, executive director of the government's disaster agency.
Civil defence personnel said 300 soldiers were sent to evacuate people and care for them.
Javier Mejia, director of Nicaragua's geological institute, said monitoring instruments showed "strong activity" in the volcano.
"We do not rule out anything, but call for calm," he said.
The 5,740-foot volcano sits 87 miles north west of Managua, the capital. It has been active since 1520, Mr Mejia said.
Nicaragua has been on alert since a strong earthquake shook neighbouring Costa Rica and then a swarm of 17 minor tremors were recorded in the area around Lake Managua next to the capital the following day.
AP
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments