Strong eruption at Popocatepetl volcano, heavy ash up to 8.5 km (28 000 feet). Mexico

A spectacular explosive eruption started at Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano at 01:23 UTC on March 27 (19:23 LT, March 26). Volcanic ash column reached 8.5 km (28 000 feet)

a.s.l. The eruption produced a thick column of ash up to 3 km (1.8 feet), drifting northeast, CENAPRED said. Incandescent material was thrown up to 2 km (1.2 miles) from the crater, sparking fires on the slopes of the volcano. Washington VAAC reported heavy ash emission moving ESE from the summit. Volcanic ash column reached an altitude of 8.5 km (28 000 feet) above sea level. Ash is expected to dissipate within 12 hours, the center said 02:12 UTC.