Volcano in Indonesia erupts – kilometer high ash cloud Volcano in Indonesia erupts – kilometer high ash cloud

On the Indonesian island of Sumatra, the Marapi volcano erupted and spewed an ash cloud about three kilometers high into the sky. The eruption occurred early Sunday afternoon local time, local authorities said. There were initially no reports of casualties or damage. According to the information, authorities have established a three-kilometer exclusion zone around the crater.

The ash fall reached the Agam district in the area around the volcano. The sky there temporarily darkened. Residents were asked to stay in their homes.

“Bisnis.com,” citing the Nature Conservation Authority of West Sumatra, reported that there were 70 hikers on Fire Mountain at the time of the eruption. Rescue workers are obliged to take them to safety. All hiking trails are temporarily closed.

According to initial measurements, the 2,981-meter-high volcano initially erupted for almost five minutes. said Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for the National Disaster Management Authority. “Further eruptions are still underway,” said Hendra Gunawan of the Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazards (PVMBG). According to the center, activity in Marapi has increased since January. Marapi is one of the most active volcanoes in Sumatra.

On the Indonesian island of Java there is a volcano with a very similar name: Merapi. The island nation of Indonesia is located on the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, the most geologically active zone on Earth. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are more common along this belt. There are approximately 130 active volcanoes in Indonesia. (saw/sda/dpa)