03 Mar 2020 | 06:09 AM UTC
Indonesia: Mount Merapi volcano erupts March 3 /update 1
Mount Merapi erupts on March 3; authorities issue code-red aviation alert and establish 3 km (2 mi) exclusion zone around the area
Event
Mount Merapi, located approximately 30 km (18 mi) north of Yogyakarta, erupted around 05:22 (local time) on Tuesday, March 3, spewing ash 6 km (4 mi) into the sky. The Centre for Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development (BPPTKG) issued a code-red aviation alert (highest alert level) and Adi Sumarmo International Airport (SOC) in Solo was temporarily closed. Authorities did not raise the volcano’s alert status following the eruption but have advised individuals to stay outside of a 3 km (2 mi) radius of Merapi.
Further eruptions are possible over the coming hours and days, along with associated transportation disruptions.
Context
Merapi previously erupted on February 13, prompting government officials to warn commercial planes to avoid flying in the area.
Advice
Individuals present in the affected area are advised to avoid the vicinity of the volcano, confirm flight reservations, monitor the situation, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders).
