Perus Ubinas volcano erupted on 15 January at 12.53pm local time (7.53am GMT), emitting smoke and ash that affected seven nearby towns. The volcano spewed an ash cloud some 9,842ft (3km) high, according to the scientists who monitor the volcano.

Volcanologists from the Volcanology Southern Observatory said the ash spread south and southeast some six miles (9.65km), affecting seven surrounding towns. Scientists expect smaller eruptions of smoke and ash to continue throughout the day.

Just days earlier, a team of volcanologists had ascended Ubinas to study the crater and take readings. After being dormant for several years, the volcano has become increasingly active since September 2013. The Ubinas volcano is in Perus Moquegua department, 776 miles south of Lima.