Volcanic eruption forces 250 from homes in Chile

SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) -- The eruption of a volcano has triggered a seismic wave forcing authorities to evacuate about 250 people from remote villages in southern Chile.

The government's Emergency Bureau said Friday the Michimahuida volcano erupted Thursday, causing around 60 minor quakes in the area 1,200 kilometers (750 miles) south of Santiago.

Carmen Fernandez, director of the bureau, said about 250 people were being evacuated from the Blanco and Chana coastal towns "as a precautionary measure."

She said the seismic activity was expected to continue for some time.

Fernandez added "The quakes caused by a volcano are normally very mild and we expect it will continue to be so this time." E-mail to a friend

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