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Peru Volcano eruption triggers evacuation,
April 24, 2006
A state of emergency was declared by President Alejandro in the southern Peruvian state of Moquegua, four days after a gas and acidic eruption by the 18,000 foot volcano Ubitas caused eye and respiratory problems for residents of the region, and 40-60 llamas and vicunas died near the crater from poisoned ash or by drinking poisoned water. The governor of Moquegua, Cristala Constantinides, slammed the central government for a nonexistent response shortly after, which caused the President to dispatch the Minister of Agriculture, the Head of the Department of Women, and a Hercules cargo plane filled with devices to filter toxic gas as well as blankets, food and tents. The Peruvian military evacuated 42 families from the village of Querati, the closest to the volcano. The 18,000 foot volcano Ubitas has erupted 23 times since 1550 and is considered one of the most active volcanoes in South America.
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