Parícutin Volcano Emerges in Mexico

Parícutin volcano erupted suddenly in 1943 from a cornfield.

Parícutin is a cinder cone volcano in Michoacán, Mexico.

Parícutin erupted for nine years, growing a 424-meter cone.

The eruption damaged more than 233 square kilometers of land.

Two towns were buried in lava, leaving church ruins visible.

Parícutin is youngest vent in the Michoacán-Guanajuato volcanic field.

The eruption began with a fissure 2 to 2.5 meters wide.

Fire flames rose 800 meters into the air on the first day.

Scientists documented the entire eruption with sketches and photos.

Lava forced evacuation but no one died directly from it.

Hundreds relocated and two new towns were built for survivors.

Parícutin remains dormant but still emits steam today.

Visitors climb the volcano and explore the lava-covered church ruins.

Parícutin was named one of the Seven Natural Wonders in 1997.