Indonesia Volcano Erupts, Killing Three and Leaving 20 Missing Hikers Unaccounted For

Indonesia Seeks Missing Hikers After Mount Dukono Eruption

A volcanic eruption on Halmahera island has trapped 20 hikers who ventured into the area despite it being closed since April 17. The eruption of Mount Dukono occurred at 07:41am local time on Friday, releasing a column of ash that reached an altitude of 10km (6.21 miles) and was accompanied by a loud booming sound.

According to authorities, three people were killed in the eruption, including two foreigners. The Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation reported that the volcano’s activity had increased significantly since April 17, prompting the closure of the area to visitors.

Rescue efforts are underway, with dozens of personnel, including police officers, deployed to search for the missing hikers. Iwan Ramdani, head of the local rescue agency, stated that nine of the hikers are from Singapore. The government has issued warnings to residents and tourists in the surrounding areas, advising them to stay at least 4km (2.4 miles) away from the Malupang Warirang crater.

The eruption’s ash distribution was primarily directed towards the north, prompting a warning for residents in Tobelo town who may be affected by “volcanic ash rain”. Authorities have also warned of potential hazards from ejected rocks and lava flows. Mount Dukono is considered an extremely active volcano, with nearly 200 eruptions reported since March.

Source: Al Jazeera