Authorities issue highest alert level as volcanic ash reaches Malaysian airspace
Mount Ruang, the volcano located on Ruang Island in North Sulawesi, Indonesia has been exhibiting increased volcanic activity since mid-April. Recent eruptions have raised concerns among authorities and prompted a series of precautionary measures.
Eruptions and evacuations:
On Tuesday, the volcano erupted three times, unleashing lava flows and ash clouds into the atmosphere. This prompted Indonesia’s national PVMBG volcanology agency to raise the alert level to its highest, signaling the potential for further eruptions and associated hazards.
Image Source: CNN
In response to the escalating situation, authorities have called for the evacuation of over 12,000 residents from Tagulandang island, which is in close proximity to Mount Ruang. The safety and well-being of the affected population remain a top priority as officials work to ensure their protection.
Air Traffic disruptions:
The volcanic eruptions have also had significant impacts on air travel in the region. Several airports, including the Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado, have been forced to temporarily close due to the presence of volcanic ash in the vicinity. This disruption has affected both domestic and international flights, causing inconvenience for travelers and airlines alike.
Impact on schools and Malaysian airspace:
In addition to the airport closures, nearby schools have been shut down to protect children from the volcanic ash. Safety first, right? And here’s something interesting: the volcanic ash from Mount Ruang has even reached eastern Malaysian airspace. The Malaysian meteorological department is closely monitoring the situation and will issue aviation weather warnings if necessary. It’s important to keep an eye on the volcanic dust movements.
Aviation weather warnings may be issued if necessary to ensure the safety of flights operating in the area.
Image Source: The Straits Times
Air Asia flight cancellations:
Air Asia, one of the major airlines serving the region, has already been affected by the volcanic activity. The airline has had to cancel 21 flights due to the latest eruption of Mount Ruang. Passengers are advised to check for any flight cancellations or updates from the airline to avoid any inconveniences.
Conclusion
Earlier this month, around 800 individuals residing near Mount Ruang were evacuated due to the volcanic activity. According to reports from AFP, some of these residents returned home after the emergency response status ended. However, it is still uncertain how many of them had to evacuate again.
Indonesia, being a vast archipelago nation, is prone to frequent seismic and volcanic events due to its location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire”. This geographical position exposes the country to heightened volcanic and tectonic activity.
As the situation continues to develop, it is crucial for individuals in the affected areas to stay informed and follow the guidance provided by local authorities. Regular updates and monitoring of volcanic activity will be essential to ensure the safety of all residents and travelers.
