Indonesia’s Ibu Volcano Erupts with Warning for Aviation Authorities
Indonesia’s Ibu volcano, located on the remote island of Halmahera, erupted on Monday, sending a massive ash cloud 6km into the sky. The country’s volcanology agency issued a warning to local aviation authorities managing flights in the area. This eruption is part of a series of volcanic activities that have been observed since April, leading to evacuations in seven nearby villages. The agency recommended clearing a 7km radius around the volcano due to the thick and grey ash column moving westward.
Red Alert Issued as Ibu Volcano Continues Erupting
The Indonesian volcanology agency raised the alert level of the Ibu volcano to the highest on its scale on May 16, following a series of eruptions. On Monday, a “red” colour code warning was issued to local aviation authorities as the ash cloud exceeded 6km in height. This volcanic activity is part of a larger trend in Indonesia, known for its 127 active volcanoes situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” Recent eruptions in the region have caused flash floods and cold lava flows, resulting in casualties and evacuations.
Impact of Volcanic Activity in Indonesia
In addition to the eruption of the Ibu volcano, other volcanoes in Indonesia have been active in recent weeks. Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province experienced flash floods and cold lava flows, causing fatalities and displacements. The Ruang volcano in North Sulawesi also erupted, prompting the evacuation of over 12,000 individuals from a nearby island. These events highlight the constant threat of volcanic activity in the region and the need for preparedness and response measures to protect local communities and aviation safety.
