Volcano Erupts in Indonesia, Causing Mass Evacuations and Flight Cancellations
Hundreds of residents have been evacuated from their homes near Mount Merapi on the island of Java as the volcano continues to erupt.
The volcano has been spewing ash and smoke into the air since early this morning, and officials are warning that the eruption could become more violent in the coming days.
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency has issued a warning for residents living within a 10-kilometer radius of the volcano to evacuate immediately.
Flights to and from Yogyakarta International Airport have been canceled due to the ash cloud, and officials are urging people to avoid the area.
Mount Merapi is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia, and it has erupted several times in recent years.
In 2010, an eruption of Mount Merapi killed more than 300 people and destroyed thousands of homes.
Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and to follow the instructions of local authorities.
Here are some tips for staying safe during a volcanic eruption:
- Stay away from the volcano and follow the instructions of local authorities.
- If you are caught in an ash cloud, cover your mouth and nose with a mask or cloth.
- Wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin from ash.
- Be aware of the risk of lahars, which are mudflows that can occur after a volcanic eruption.