Chile's Puyehue-Cordon Caulle Volcanic

Chain Erupts, Forcing Thousands to Flee

Chile, renowned for its volcanic

landscape, was jolted by a significant
eruption in the Puyehue-Cordon
Caulle volcanic chain, approximately
800 kilometres south of the capital,
Santiago. The eruption, marking the
first major volcanic activity since
1960, sent a towering column of ash
soaring ten kilometres into the sky,
accompanied by constant seismic
activity and the pungent smell of
sulphur.
In response to the eruption, the Chilean government initiated the evacuation of over 3500
residents from the affected area. The scene was surreal, with huge flames and lightning
flashes illuminating the sky, while ash blanketed the surroundings, obscuring visibility and
creating hazardous weather conditions.
The impact extended beyond Chile's
borders, as winds carried ash into
neighbouring Argentina, casting skies into
darkness and prompting the cancellation
of public activities and closure of airports.
The border crossing between the two
countries was shut down as authorities
scrambled to monitor the shifting ash
clouds and provide assistance to affected
communities.
Amid the chaos, the Chilean health ministry distributed face masks and eye drops to
residents, though some chose to remain behind, unwilling to leave their homes and
livestock. The situation remains complex and unpredictable, with the mayor of Lago Ranco
expressing concerns over the erratic wind patterns exacerbating the crisis. As both Chile and
Argentina brace for further disruptions, the aftermath of this volcanic eruption underscores
the enduring power and unpredictability of nature's forces.

Amatullah Mufaddal 1