Indonesian Rescuers Evacuate Thousands After Mount Ruang Erupts
Indonesian rescuers are in a race against time to evacuate thousands of people following the eruption of Mount Ruang. The volcano, located on a remote island in Indonesia’s outermost region, has erupted five times, leading to a series of urgent measures by authorities.
Alert Level Raised to Highest Tier
The crater of Mount Ruang flamed with lava against a backdrop of lightning bolts after erupting four times on Wednesday. This forced authorities to raise the alert level to the highest tier in the four-tiered system.
Evacuation Efforts and Impact
Authorities have closed the nearest international airport in Manado on Sulawesi island for 24 hours due to the billowing column of smoke from the volcano. Houses on the neighboring island of Tagulandang have been damaged by falling volcanic rocks, prompting residents to prepare for evacuation.
- More than 11,000 residents are being evacuated from the area around Tagulandang.
- Residents are fleeing in panic, with some evacuating on their own.
- Authorities are using rubber boats to evacuate residents along the coastline near the volcano.
- A prison on Tagulandang has been evacuated, ferrying inmates and officials to Likupang seaport.
Tsunami Warning and Previous Experience
Authorities have issued a warning about the potential for a tsunami as a result of the eruptions. This warning is based on the possibility of incandescent rocks, hot clouds discharges, and tsunami caused by the collapse of the volcano’s body into the sea.
In 2018, a similar incident occurred at Mount Anak Krakatoa, resulting in a tsunami that claimed many lives. Indonesia, known for its frequent seismic and volcanic activity, is located on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” making it prone to such natural disasters.
Impact on Air Travel
The eruption of Mount Ruang has led to the closure of Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado for 24 hours due to the spread of volcanic ash, posing a risk to flight safety.