MEXICO CITY, Dec. 1 (Xinhua) -- Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano on Saturday erupted several times, spewing steam and ash over 2 km high.

    The eruption of the volcano, which is located some 70 km southeast to the Mexican capital, started at 6:20 a.m. local time (1220 GMT), and six eruptions occurred in 24 hours, said a statement issued by the National Disaster Prevention Center.

    Some ash rained down the capital which can be seen in several streets, said local media. The government advised fewer outdoor activities or wearing gauze mask when going outdoor.

    The authorities also said residents in the surrounding areas of the volcano should clean ash from cars and homes as soon as possible to avoid inhaling more ash.

    The volcano, whose name is the Aztec word for smoking mountain with a summit elevation of 5,452 meters above sea level, is Mexico's second highest mountain. Its first recorded eruption took place in 1345. In the past 13 years, it has become more active during the month of December.