Mount Ruang, a volcano in Indonesia, erupted on Tuesday, sending fiery lava and ash shooting into the night sky and prompting the evacuation of hundreds of people in the North Sulawesi province. The eruption, which occurred at around 7:19 p.m. local time, forced more than 800 residents in nearby villages to flee their homes and seek shelter in churches and community centers.
Authorities have stated that supplies such as mats, blankets, cleaning materials, and tents are urgently needed for those affected by the eruption. Additional shelters may also be opened to accommodate the growing number of evacuees.
Indonesia, known for being part of the Ring of Fire, a region prone to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes due to tectonic plate movements, has seen its fair share of volcanic activity. Mount Ruang, a stratovolcano, last experienced a major eruption in 2002, with a plume of lava and ash reaching up to 17 miles high.
Dr. Tracy K.P. Gregg, a geology expert, explained that Mount Ruang’s recent eruption is smaller in scale compared to its previous activity in 2002. However, the volcano’s behavior is unpredictable, and its current state cannot be fully assessed until the eruption subsides.
Leading up to the eruption, more than 300 volcanic earthquakes were detected over a period of at least two weeks, indicating increased volcanic activity. The exact cause of the eruption remains unclear, as each volcano has its own unique characteristics and triggers.
In recent years, Indonesia has witnessed several volcanic eruptions, with Mount Marapi on the island of Sumatra erupting in December 2023, resulting in the tragic deaths of 11 hikers. The volcanic activity in the region serves as a reminder of the constant threat posed by these natural phenomena and the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of such events.
