An underwater eruption which kicked off on Monday at two-and-a-half kilometres from the coast of El Hierro is now said to be in waters of less than 150 metres in depth.
Experts say that when the eruption reaches its full force, white columns of vapour will be seen from far and wide.
The volcanic ‘stain’ on the surface of the water is now bigger than the island itself, and residents in the village of La Restinga are currently being evacuated as a precaution.
But once they are moved away from the area, it is not thought that any other inhabitants will be at risk.
No further evacuations are expected as yet, says the head of safety and emergencies in the Canary Islands’ regional goverment, Juan Santana.
Boats, helicopters and planes have been banned from the area, as the government cannot guarantee their safety.
( thinkspain )
[mappress] Source: thinkspain, October 17 , 2011; Image: meteoweb