Ruang Volcano Eruption Forces Evacuation of 12,000 in Indonesia, Sparks Tsunami Warning

On Tuesday, April 30, 2024, the Ruang volcano in Indonesia's North Sulawesi province erupted spectacularly, spewing ash and lava and prompting authorities to raise the alert status to the highest level. The eruption forced the evacuation of around 12,000 residents on the nearby Tagulandang Island and triggered a tsunami warning.

The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) warned residents of a potential tsunami due to volcanic material collapsing into the ocean. All 843 residents of Ruang island, where the volcano is located, have been moved to Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province. Residents of Tagulandang island are being relocated to Siau island.

The eruption column reached 5 kilometers high, and authorities urged any remaining residents within a 7-kilometer radius to evacuate due to the risk of further explosive eruptions. "The eruption corresponded with a spike in seismic activity and deep volcanic earthquakes," said a PVMBG spokesperson.

Footage on social media showed fiery red lava flowing from Ruang and strikes of lightning flashing above its crater. The eruption also caused the closure of Manado's Sam Ratulangi airport due to the possible spread of volcanic ash.

Why this matters: The Ruang volcano eruption highlights the ongoing threat posed by Indonesia's active volcanoes, particularly those located in densely populated areas. The evacuation of thousands of residents and the tsunami warning emphasize the need for robust disaster preparedness and response measures in the region.

This eruption follows a series of smaller eruptions earlier in the month that forced hundreds to evacuate and caused damage to some homes. Indonesia, situated in the 'Ring of Fire,' experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position where multiple tectonic plates meet. Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation and provide assistance to affected residents while maintaining the highest level of alert around the Ruang volcano.

Key Takeaways

• Ruang volcano in Indonesia erupted, prompting highest alert status.
• Eruption forced evacuation of 12,000 residents, triggered tsunami warning.
• Eruption column reached 5 km, authorities urged 7 km radius evacuation.
• Eruption caused airport closure due to volcanic ash spread.
• Highlights ongoing threat of Indonesia's active volcanoes in populated areas.