Indonesian authorities were closely monitoring Mount Ruang volcano for more eruptions following a series of eruptions that forced thousands to evacuate from nearby villages. The volcano erupted multiple times in a span of 24 hours, releasing fiery orange lava, a towering ash column, and volcanic lightning. Despite signs of calming down, officials maintained the highest alert level due to ongoing high volcanic activity.
Residents of Tagulandang island, located near Mount Ruang, were seen clearing volcanic debris from their surroundings with the help of soldiers and police officers. Many residents recalled their panic and the urgency to seek safety when the eruption began. One resident, Ninice Hoata, described her experience of seeking refuge in a house and praying for mercy as rocks fell around her. The cleanup efforts were hampered by the need for assistance with tarpaulins to cover leaking roofs.
The national disaster mitigation agency (BNPB) spokesman, Abdul Muhari, reported that white smoke of “medium to high intensity” was still billowing up to 100m above the crater. Despite some signs of calming activity, residents remained vigilant and prepared for potential follow-up eruptions. Many residents expressed concerns about further volcanic activity and the need for additional assistance to help them recover from the aftermath of the eruption.
The eruption from Mount Ruang, which began late Tuesday, had a significant impact on the surrounding communities, forcing thousands to evacuate and causing damage to homes and infrastructure. The volcano’s ongoing high activity levels kept authorities on high alert, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and preparedness. The eruption also served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of volcanic activity and the importance of being ready to respond to emergencies.
Local residents were actively involved in cleaning up debris from the volcanic eruption, with support from government agencies and law enforcement. The tasks of clearing volcanic material from public spaces and homes were essential in restoring daily life on Tagulandang island. Many residents faced challenges such as leaking roofs and the need for tarpaulins to protect their homes from the elements, highlighting the urgent need for aid and support in the aftermath of the eruption.
As uncertainty loomed over the situation with Mount Ruang, residents remained on edge, fearing the possibility of further eruptions. The community’s resilience and unity were evident in their collective efforts to clean up and recover from the disaster. Authorities continued to monitor the volcano closely, emphasizing the need for preparedness and response measures in case of any escalation in volcanic activity. The situation served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by living near active volcanoes and the importance of being ready to face such challenges.
