FERNANDINA ERUPTS

The volcano known as La Cumbre on Fernandina, in the Galapagos islands, erupted last Friday, threatening some vegetation and animals (iguanas in particular) on the island of Fernandina. Officials said measures will not be taken to rescue fauna like iguanas and snakes, because "this is a natural phenomenon and Fernandina is the youngest and better preserved island of the archipelago and must evolve without human intervention. The eruption has caused absolutely no disruption of flights or cruises. The lucky ones were the travellers in the area who were able to witness such a great event. The eruption can be viewed from Punta Espinoza which is a visitor site.

Fernandina is the youngest and most active volcanic island in the Galapagos archipelago and has had between 20 and 22 eruptions since 1813. Ecuadorian authorities said they would not declare the island, which is formed mostly of lava, a disaster area.