The Nation : Alaskan Volcano Erupts

Alaska’s Augustine volcano pumped smoke and ash more than nine miles into the air, and winds carried the cloud of ash north toward Anchorage, Alaska’s major population center. A score of airliners were diverted from Anchorage, and the Air Force quickly removed several of its fighter jets from Elmendorf Air Force Base because of the corrosive ash. Authorities in Anchorage issued a health alert urging people to stay home and avoid exercise. It was the first time the volcano had erupted since 1976.