Mt. Sinabung Erupts 18 Times On Tuesday

Medan, North Sumatra, Jan 22 (Antara) - Mount Sinabung in the district of Karo, North Sumatra, erupted 18 times on Tuesday, emitting hot smoke and molten lava. The head of data information and public relations of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, stated here on Wednesday via a text message that the volcano spewed hot clouds across 4,500 meter southward and southeastward. It also produced molten lava up to 211 times flowing up to 1,500 meter away southeastward. Volcanic tremors continued to occur, indicating the movement of magma deep inside, he explained. Until 6 a.m., on Wednesday, five eruptions had already been recorded from the mountain, followed by hot clouds coming out of its crater. Total volcanic tremors were recorded 21 times while hybrid tremors 32 times indicating movement of magma. Under the condition, it is concluded that the activity of the volcano is still high, he pointed out. A total of 28,536 people or 8,967 families have so far been evacuated in 42 locations. Mount Sinabung has been active again since 2010 after its last explosion was recorded in 1600.