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.
The eruption occurred at 9:31 local time (1661 GMT).
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.
Popocatepetl's last major eruption was 2000, when more than 40,000 people had to evacuate.
Mexico contains over 3,000 volcanos but only 14 are considered active.
Popocatepetl Volcano is located some 70 kilometres (43 miles) southeast of Mexico City.
