Indonesia: Volcano erupts on Sulawesi October 3

Event

Soputan, a stratovolcano in northern Sulawesi, erupted at 08:47 (local time) on Wednesday, October 3. The eruption created a cloud of ash more than 4000 m (13,100 ft) high, which began moving to the north and northwest. Authorities evacuated an area 4 km (2.5 mi) radius from the summit and up to 6.5 km (4 mi) to the south and west of the volcano. Further eruptions are possible in the coming days and weeks, along with several other dangerous effects, such as lava flows, mudslides, and condensing or descending ash clouds. Transportation disruptions, including flights, cannot be ruled out.

Context

Soputan is one of the most active volcanos on Sulawesi, with four eruptions in the past eight years. The volcanic eruption is likely not related to the September 28 earthquake and tsunami in central Sulawesi.

Advice

Individuals in or traveling near northern Sulawesi are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate further eruptions, ash emissions, and transportation disruptions. Individuals in the immediate vicinity of Soputan are advised to take precautions to avoid ash inhalation and adhere to all instructions (e.g. evacuation notices) issued by local authorities.