THOUSANDS MOVED AWAY FROM VOLATILE VOLCANO

Scientists in the Philippines have raised the alert level for the volatile volcano Mount Mayon, amid fears of an imminent eruption. It is now at four out of a possible five, meaning a hazardous eruption "is possible within days". Level five is when a major eruption has begun. Scientists raised the level after the number of volcanic earthquakes more than doubled yesterday. The cone-shaped volcano has already been emitting lava and ash for days. About 40,000 people who live near Mount Mayon have been moved to temporary shelters.