Indonesians Evacuate Homes Near Erupting Volcano as Airport Shuts Down Due to Ash Threat

Mount Ruang Volcano Erupts in Indonesia, Prompting Airport Closure and Evacuations

MANADO, Indonesia (AP) — Indonesian authorities have taken swift action in response to the eruption of Mount Ruang on the northern side of Sulawesi Island. The volcano had at least five large eruptions on Wednesday, leading to the closure of an international airport and the evacuation of residents in the surrounding area.

The Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation issued its highest level alert, indicating an active eruption. The crater emitted white-gray smoke continuously on Thursday, reaching more than 500 meters above the peak. People have been ordered to stay at least 6 kilometers from the 725-meter mountain, with more than 11,000 residents in the affected area instructed to leave. So far, at least 800 people have evacuated.

The volcanic ash spewed into the air prompted the temporary closure of the airport in Manado city. Ambar Suryoko, head of the regional airport authority, emphasized the importance of ensuring flight safety in the face of the volcanic activity.

The risks associated with the eruption include the potential collapse of part of the volcano into the sea, which could trigger a tsunami. Residents of Tagulandang Island, east of the volcano, are among those being evacuated to safer locations.

Indonesia, with its 120 active volcanoes, is no stranger to volcanic activity. The country sits along the “Ring of Fire,” a region known for seismic activity around the Pacific Ocean. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency is working to ensure the safety of residents in the affected area, with plans to relocate them to Manado, the nearest city on Sulawesi island.

As the situation unfolds, authorities are closely monitoring the volcano and its potential impact on the surrounding communities.