Volcano Wolf in the Galapagos Islands spews lava and ash clouds

The tallest volcano in the Galapagos Islands has erupted, spewing lava and clouds of ash over the Pacific Ocean.

The Wolf Volcano, situated on Isabela Island, sent gas and ash around 3,793 metres (12,444ft) above sea level following the eruption, Ecuador’s Geophysical Institute said.

Beginning just before midnight on Wednesday, the explosion caused lava to flow down the southern and southeastern flanks of the volcano, which is also known as Mount Whiton.

There was no immediate danger to populated areas located on the opposite side of the island, which is the largest in the Galapagos chain.

The institute added that at around 9:35pm local time a magnitude 2.4 earthquake was recorded, with its epicentre at the volcano.

At 11.15pm, a tremor signal was observed, which it stated was probably associated with the start of the eruption.

It also warned that interaction between fiery lava flows and seawater can cause explosions, so advised people to avoid arriving via sea.

The 1,701 metre (5,580ft) volcano is one of the numerous active volcanos in the archipelago, which are nearly 1,000km (600 miles) from mainland South America.

Images taken from afar and circulated by the government showed glowing lava piercing through the pre-dawn darkness.

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