An explosive eruption occurred at Chaiten volcano in Chile yesterday. A flyover of the volcano revealed a fracture in the lava dome, which had partially collapsed. Large quantities of gases and pyroclastic material were observed. About 160 residents were evacuated from Chaiten town, 10 km from the volcano. Most of the residents of Chaiten town evacuated last year after large eruptions in May. The volcano has been in continuous eruption since May 2008, and periodic larger explosions create a hazard for residents remaining in the area.
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