Volcano erupts in Chile for first time since 1961

PUERTO OCTAY, Chile, April 22 (UPI) -- More than 1,500 were evacuated in southern Chile after volcano Calbuco erupted, spewing an enormous column of ash into the sky.

It was the first time the volcano, which is located near the town of Puerto Octay in Llanquihue province, has erupted since 1961.

Chile's National Service of Geology and Mining ordered a 12-mile radius around the volcano crater be evacuated.

Additionally, Interior Minister Rodrigo Peñailillo declared a state of emergency in the region.

"I call for calm among the population, which is well informed," Peñailillo said.