Indonesia: Airlines warned over Mount Merapi eruptions May 24 /update 1

Event

On Thursday, May 24, the Indonesian government issued a warning to airlines over ongoing eruptions of Mount Merapi - a volcano located on the border between Central Java and Yogyakarta - which started on May 21. The warning was issued around 04:00 (local time) to advise airlines of the presence of dangerous volcanic ash that has reached up to 6000 m (20,000 ft) into the atmosphere. For the moment no disruptions have been reported at Yogyakarta's Adisutjipo International Airport (JOG), although flight delays and cancelations are possible in the coming hours and days if volcanic activity intensifies.

The evacuation order issued for areas within a 3-km (1.9 mi) radius of the volcano remains in effect as of May 24, and authorities continue to advise individuals in the area to wear masks to protect themselves from toxic particles in the air.

Context

Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia is exposed to a permanent risk of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. In October and November 2010, Mount Merapi experienced a series of powerful eruptions that killed more than 350 people and forced more than 20,000 others to evacuate. Earlier in May, volcanic activity at Mount Merapi forced the temporarily suspension of operations at JOG as well as evacuations.

Advice

Individuals present in Indonesia are advised to keep abreast of the situation, adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities, and confirm flight reservations.