Caribbean island rocked by volcanic eruptions

The tiny eastern Caribbean island of Saint Vincent was blanketed by ash Sunday, where authorities said the La Soufriere volcano erupted yet again in the late afternoon.

Some 20,000 people have been evacuated from their homes since eruptions began last week, many staying in shelters in the island's capital, Kingstown.

Layers of ash as thick as 8 inches have destroyed crops, contaminated water, killed animals and devastated infrastructure, leaving some roads impassable and slowing down search and rescue.

So far, there have been no reports of casualties or injuries.

But many of the island's 100,000 residents are struggling with shortages

Several Caribbean neighbors have donated cots, food, masks and respiratory tanks.

Saint Vincent's volcano was dormant for decades, with its last reported eruption in 1979.

Officials have warned activity could continue for months.