Evacuation of Colombian town near volcano

BOGOTA, Colombia - The Colombian government asked 9000 people living near the Galeras volcano in the southeast province of Narino to evacuate after scientists said it could erupt soon.

Some residents of the area, near the town of Pasto, told local media they were reluctant to leave their farms and livestock despite increased seismic activity recorded by the Colombian Institute of Geology and Mines.

"I always have a packed suitcase ready, a flashlight and a radio," said local resident Aida Vallejo, who declined to heed the government's recommendation to immediately evacuate.

Galeras had a small gas and ash eruption a year ago that started forest fires but caused no injuries. An eruption of the volcano in 1993 killed at least 10 people.

- REUTERS