Volcanic Activity Triggers Evacuation Of Hundreds In Indonesia's North Sulawesi

JAKARTA, April 17 (Bernama) -- Increased volcanic activity at Mount Ruang in the Sitaro Islands, North Sulawesi province, since Tuesday has prompted the evacuation of 272 families or 828 individuals from nearby villages.

Temporary shelters surrounding the Tagulandang area are currently accommodating 45 people, while another 783 have relocated to relatives' houses nearby or travelled to the mainland using ferries and boats.

The local authorities have declared a State of Emergency for 14 days, effective from April 16 to April 29.

Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has provided essential aid including 123 mats, 120 blankets, and 400 face masks.

"The local government is mobilising 50 personnel, including members from the district mitigation agency (BPBD), search and rescue agency (Basarnas), health workers, and firefighters," said BNPB spokesperson Abdul Muhari in a statement Wednesday.

He also reported that the eruption last night led to volcanic ashfall, which disrupted communication networks and signals in Laingpatehi village.

The volcano's status was elevated from Level II (Caution) to Level III (Alert) on Tuesday at 4 pm local time.

“Residents and tourists are advised to exercise caution and refrain from entering the four-kilometer radius around the active crater of Mount Ruang volcano,” Abdul Muhari said.

-- BERNAMA