Costa Rica on alert after Turrialba volcano spews ash
This is Turrialba's largest eruption in more than a century, reports Mark Sedgwick
Costa Rica has issued an emergency alert after ash from an erupting volcano reached the capital and beyond.
Turrialba volcano, some 50km (30 miles) east of San Jose, began rumbling and producing seismic activity on Wednesday night.
The authorities said they were evacuating nearby residents to temporary shelters as a precaution.
Eyewitnesses reported fiery explosions and ash falling like snow over parts of central Costa Rica.
This is Turrialba's largest eruption in more than a century.
The National Emergency Commission said volcanologists and other specialists were on site to assess the situation.
Costa Rica is home to dozens of volcanoes, but most of them are dormant.
Volcanologists and other specialists were on site to assess the situation
This is Turrialba's largest eruption in more than a century

Argentina leader may face bomb probe
'Copenhagen gunman' shot by police
Analysing Assad
Hair, hips and heels
Light up
Show goes on
Best kiss
The Travel Show