A woman cries for her alpaca which died due to ash from the Ubinas volcano in Peru (AP Photo)

Peruvian authorities have ordered the preventative evacuation of 4,000 people living near the Ubinas volcano, which has been spouting ash clouds up to two miles (nearly 4km) high.

The Andina state news agency quoted Agriculture Minister Juan Benites as saying it will take three days to move the residents of two southern districts and their 30,000 sheep, cows, horses, burros and other animals.

Peru's health ministry said about 40 people have complained of eye inflammation and stomach problems from ash that has been falling from Ubinas since March 29.

The 18,609ft (5,672m) volcano is Peru's most active. It most recent strong eruption period occurred from 2006-2009.

PA Media