Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano came to life Sunday (March 27) morning, spewing a roughly 2,000 metre- (6562 feet-) high column of gas and ash in central Mexico. <br /> <br />The eruption occurred at 9:31 local time (1661 GMT). <br /> <br />Local officials have encouraged locals to cover their noses and mouths with a moist towel. A 12-km (7.5 mile-) security ring around the volcano has been mandated, preventing passage close to the crater. <br /> <br />Popocatepetl's last major eruption was 2000, when more than 40,000 people had to evacuate. <br /> <br />Mexico contains over 3,000 volcanos but only 14 are considered active. <br /> <br />Popocatepetl Volcano is located some 70 kilometres (43 miles) southeast of Mexico City.
