Chile's Chaiten volcano has erupted, sending clouds of ash and hot rocks into the sky. Some 1500 people have been evacuated as thick clouds of volcanic debris cover the region.
Towns in the southern Argentine province of Chubut have also been affected with authorities closing schools and issuing road warnings due to low visibility. Chaiten is about 1300kms (780 miles) south of Santiago.
Chile's Office of National Emergencies have reported no casualties or damage as of this time.
