Mexico volcano erupts shooting ash and smoke into the air

A volcano in Mexico has erupted, spewing smoke and ash more than two miles into the air.

Mexico's Popocateptl volcano, also known as Popo, had three explosive eruptions, sending fragments into the sky.

The first explosion occurred on Friday, with two more overnight, covering nearby villages in ash and smoke.

Popocateptl has been active since the mid-1990s and authorities have placed the volcano on yellow alert, urging residents to avoid outdoor activities.

There are more than 3,000 volcanos in Mexico - 14 of which are considered active.

Popocateptl regularly emits smoke and ash but is rarely considered life-threatening.

A massive eruption in 2000 forced the evacuation of around 50,000 people.