Mexico's Colima volcano erupts powerfully

Mexico's Colima volcano roared back to life on Friday (February 3) during an afternoon eruption which sent a column of ash and smoke 4,000 metres (13,123 feet) above its crater.

The explosion could be seen from several kilometers (miles) away and sent ash raining down on surrounding areas in the states of Colima and Jalisco.

Authorities said there was no need for area residents to evacuate, despite the powerful eruption.

The 3,800-metre (12,500-feet) volcano has increased in activity since October, generating eruptive columns of heights ranging from 1,000 metres (3,280 feet) to 4,000 metres (13,123 feet) in height, sometimes accompanied by the release of incandescent fragments and pyroclastic flows.

Since Jan. 3, the magnitude of the explosions has been increasing.

The volcano is located in western Mexico between the states of Colima and Jalisco and is one of the country's most active.

According to website volcanodiscovery.com, increased activity at the volcano is due to the growth of a new lava dome.

The Colima Volcano, also known as the Fire Volcano, is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Mexico has more than 3,000 volcanoes, but only 14 are considered active.