Dangerous flows of hot lava from an active Indonesian volcano combine with widespread flooding.
Cold lava, or lahar, is a combination of volcanic materials like ash, sand, and pebbles that travels down a volcano's sides during rainfall. This phenomenon has been witnessed near Mount Marapi, an active volcano in western Sumatra, as shown by photographs from the country's disaster management agency.
The agency reported damage to 84 homes and 16 bridges from the mudslides caused by this Volcanic flow, along with flooding in four districts - this includes Agam Regency where over 100 homes and structures were submerged, several villagers were swept away.
At least 37 people have lost their lives in the rain and volcanic mudslides, with 35 bodies confirmed - most of these victims are from Agam Regency with an approximate population of 500,000 residents.
Mount Marapi, standing at a height of 2,891 meters (9,500 feet), is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes. The recent events occur in the country known for its abundance of active volcanoes, as it sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where 127 active volcanoes are recorded - more than any other region globally. This particular volcano has had 11 eruptions in the current century. Its most deadly eruption in 1979 resulted in 60 deaths.
More recently, an eruption in December claimed the lives of 23 climbers while sending volcanic ash as high as 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) into the air, encasing whole villages, roads, and vehicles in the area.
After the most recent eruption of Mount Marapi in January, authorities in Indonesia advised against approaching within a 4.5-kilometer (2.8-mile) radius of the crater where the eruption happened.
Read also:
- Rain expected again: The situation in the flood areas remains threatening
- Continuous rain until Thursday: Concerns about collapsing dykes are growing in the flood areas
- Flood situation remains tense - more rain forecast
- Flood situation remains tense - weir on the Elbe is opened
Despite the dangers posed by both hot lava and cold lahar, some individuals may still choose to venture near active volcanoes. Proper risk assessment and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial to minimize potential losses.
Source: edition.cnn.com
