A kilometer-high ash cloud after a volcanic eruption in Sumatra

On the Indonesian island of Sumatra, the Marabi volcano erupted and spewed a cloud of ash about three kilometers high into the sky. Local authorities said that the eruption occurred today (local time). There were initially no reports of casualties or damage. According to the information, the authorities established a three-kilometre exclusion zone around the crater.

Ashval arrived at Agam in the area surrounding the volcano. The sky there is temporarily dark. Residents were asked to stay in their homes.

Activity has increased since January

The news website Bisnis.com, citing the West Sumatra Nature Conservation Authority, reported that 70 hikers were on the volcano at the time of the eruption. Rescue workers are working to move them to safety. All hiking trails are temporarily closed.

Abdel-Mahari, spokesman for the National Disaster Management Authority, said that preliminary measurements indicate that the 2,981-meter-high volcano initially erupted for about five minutes. “More volcanic eruptions are still underway,” said Hendra Gunawan of the Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazards (PVMBG).

According to the centre, Marape activity has increased since January. Marapi is one of the most active volcanoes in Sumatra. The island of Indonesia is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, the most geologically active region on Earth. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur frequently along this belt. There are about 130 active volcanoes in Indonesia.