Lava threatens Lumajang

Lava threatens Lumajang

LUMAJANG, East Java: Fearing that the heavy rains would wash
lava down from Mount Semeru, the local government evacuated 850
people in the Pronojiwo subdistrict to safer ground Saturday.

The heavy rains that have pounded the regency since early
Saturday could flush an estimated 13 tons of lava from the slopes
of the volcano, said Abdul Rahman from the social service office.

The 230 families are taking shelter in an elementary school
building in Supit Urang and in the residence of the Krajan
village chief, Antara reported.

The 3,676-meter volcano spewed hot ashes, damaging 441
hectares of food crops in Sumber Sari and Supit Urang villages
last week but there have not been any reports of fatalities.
(pan)