Ecuadorian authorities are encouraging residents living near the Tungurahua volcano to evacuate due to increased activity, according to local media reports cited by Reuters. The volcano has been in an active state since October 1999.
© Gary Granja/Reuters
The Tungurahua volcano spews a large cloud of ash towards the nearby town of Bilbao, Ecuador, in the early hours of August 21, 2012.

© Carlos Campana/Reuters
The volcano spews large clouds of gas and ash near Banos, about 110 miles south of Quito, on August 20, 2012.
© Gary Granja/Reuters
The volcano spews ash towards the nearby town of Banos on August 21, 2012.
© Carlos Campana/Reuters
A view of the volcano on August 20, 2012.