Indonesian Volcano Spews Ash 10 km High, Thousands Evacuate
Mount Semeru, Indonesia's highest volcano, erupted on Saturday, spewing ash and smoke 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) into the sky, forcing thousands of people to evacuate their homes.
The eruption began at around 3:00 pm local time and has continued for several hours. The ash cloud has spread across the island of Java, reaching as far as the city of Yogyakarta, about 400 kilometers (250 miles) to the west.
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that at least 1,979 people have been evacuated from the area around Mount Semeru. The agency has also issued a warning for residents to stay away from the volcano and to be prepared for further eruptions.
The Indonesian Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has raised the alert level for Mount Semeru to the highest level, indicating that a major eruption is possible. The agency has also warned that the ash cloud could cause respiratory problems and that people should wear masks if they are outside.
Mount Semeru is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia. It last erupted in December 2021, killing at least 51 people and destroying hundreds of homes.
