Mount Marapi Erupts Saturday Morning, Ash Plume Rises 2,000 Metres

Mount Marapi in Agam and Tanah Datar regencies, West Sumatra, erupted on Saturday (30/5) morning, spewing volcanic ash up to 2,000 metres high. The Marapi Volcano Observatory (PGA) in Bukittinggi reported the eruption occurred at 08:42 WIB and lasted 85 seconds. ‘The eruption was ongoing at the time of this report,’ said PGA officer Ahmad Rifandi. He added that the ash column was directed northeast and appeared as thick grey. Mount Marapi is currently at alert level II. Residents are advised not to enter or conduct activities within a 3-kilometre radius of the eruption centre. ‘Residents are urged to wear nose and mouth masks to prevent respiratory infections (ISPA) and use protective gear for eyes and skin in the event of ashfall. Additionally, they should secure clean water supplies and clear thick volcanic ash from rooftops to prevent collapse,’ he said.