Volcano smokes, public cautioned

Volcano smokes, public cautioned

PURWOKERTO, Central Java: Increased activity of Mount Slamet
has led Governor Mardiyanto to instruct regents to take necessary
precautions. The closest regencies around the 3,428-meter-high
mountain are those of Banyumas, Pemalang, Brebes and Purbalingga.

He also asked residents to comply with existing rules
regarding the volcano's increased activity.

"Orders have been issued against climbing Mount Slamet,"
Mardiyanto said. "I ask that the instruction be complied with for
the sake of all our safety."

Thick smoke was seen up to 200 meters high according to
reports received on Monday, Mardiyanto said.

Officials overseeing the eastern part of Mount Slamet said
increased activity had been monitored since April 19. Supriyadi
Puji of the provincial branch of the state-run Perhutani company
said that yesterday's black smoke reached 100 meters high and
later increased to double that.

He said the sulfur emanated through the smoke could be fatal
to humans. Wild animals have begun to descend and are approaching
residential areas, he said.

All climbing routes leading to the mountain peak were closed
on Monday. (45)