An eruption of Indonesia’s Mount Marapi volcano has resulted in a tragic toll, claiming the lives of 11 individuals while leaving 12 others unaccounted for as lava flowed from the 2,891-meter-high volcano situated in Sumatra’s western province.
Reports from the World News Agency indicate that the eruption ejected lava up to a distance of 3 kilometers, witnessed by a group of 75 climbers present on the mountain at the time. Following the eruption, rescue efforts were initiated, leading to the successful extraction of 3 climbers with severe burns, while 49 others sustained minor injuries.
As the rescue operation continued, the bodies of 11 climbers were discovered, and the identification process for the deceased is underway. Regrettably, hopes of finding the remaining 12 missing climbers alive are diminishing.
Due to concerns regarding safety, the rescue team spokesperson announced a temporary halt in the search for the missing climbers. Continuing the operation under the prevailing circumstances could potentially endanger the lives of aid volunteers.
The aftermath of the eruption saw lava ash and smoke clouds spreading over a radius of 3 kilometers from the volcano. Some vehicles were engulfed by the lava, causing roads to become pockmarked, leading citizens to stay indoors for safety.
Mount Marapi is known for periodic lava eruptions, and this year witnessed an eruption between January and February, projecting ash to heights varying from 75 meters to 1,000 meters.
The deadliest eruption of this active volcano occurred in April 1979, claiming the lives of 60 individuals. Indonesia, situated on the Pacific’s “Ring of Fire,” boasts 127 active volcanoes, as highlighted by the Volcanology Agency.
