Mount Marapi erupted in December 2023, claiming the lives of at least 23 people. More than 50 climbers were rescued. - Reuters
JAKARTA: Mount Marapi in West Sumatra erupted on Thursday (May 30) at 1.04pm Western Indonesian Time, sending a column of ash soaring about 2,000m above the summit, according to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).
Its spokesperson Abdul Muhari, stated that the ash column observed to be grey in colour drifted northwestward, and rumblings from the eruption were audible as far as the Marapi Volcano Observation Post in Bukittinggi.
"The volcano, currently at alert level III status, recorded seismic activity with a maximum amplitude of 30.4mm lasting for about two minutes and two seconds,” he said in a statement.
Residents within a 4.5-km radius of Mount Marapi were advised to remain vigilant, avoid nearby activities, and take precautions for possible lava flow during rainfall, including wearing masks to protect against ashfall.
Abdul Muhari also emphasised the importance of maintaining a positive community atmosphere, avoiding misinformation, and adhering to guidance from local authorities.
Mount Marapi, a towering volcano reaching 2,891-metre high, erupted in December 2023, claiming the lives of at least 23 people. More than 50 climbers were rescued. - Bernama
