Authorities in Chile on Monday issued a mandatory evacuation of an approximately 15-mile radius around the Copahue volcano, according to reports. They said that recent volcanic activity could trigger an eruption.
The volcano, which is located on the border between Chile and Argentina, has experienced higher levels of seismic activity in the past few weeks, reported Reuters, citing local authorities.
Citing the National Geological and Mining Service, Interior Minister Andres Chadwick said that it “is now in a process that risks turning into an eruption, for that reason we’ve issued a red alert.”
Officials said that around 2,240 people will be evacuated under the order.
“This red alert has been issued after monitoring the activity of the volcano and seeing that it has increased seismic activity,” Chadwick said at a conference, reported the BBC. “There is a risk that it can start erupting.”
According to The Associated Press, he said the evacuation “is obligatory; it’s not voluntary.”
Chile’s Emergency Office said the evacuation could last as long as 48 hours.
Authorities in nearby Neuquen province in Argentina issued a “yellow alert,” saying that evacuations are mandatory.
In December, Chilean officials issued a red alert for Copahue after it emitted ash and gas. Nearby residents were also evacuated and planes were warned.
The volcano experienced a major eruption in 1992, said the Mining Ministry’s Sernageomin geology unit, AP reported.
