A catastrophic volcanic eruption on Mount Marapi in western Indonesia has led to the tragic loss of at least 11 hikers, as confirmed by a local rescue official on Monday. The eruption, which occurred on the island of Sumatra, sent a colossal tower of ash soaring 3,000 meters into the sky, marking a devastating turn of events.
Abdul Malik, head of Padang Search and Rescue Agency, reported, “There are 26 people who have not been evacuated. We have found 14 of them, three were found alive and 11 were found dead.” He further indicated that a total of 75 hikers were on the mountain during the eruption, with rescue efforts aimed at accounting for all individuals.
Despite valiant efforts, 12 individuals remain unaccounted for, while 49 have successfully descended, with some already receiving medical attention at hospitals. Rescue teams have been tirelessly working through the night to ensure the safe descent of mountaineers, as confirmed by West Sumatra’s natural resources conservation agency.
Rudy Rinaldi, head of the West Sumatra Disaster Mitigation Agency, highlighted the severity of injuries sustained by rescued hikers, stating, “Some suffered from burns because it was very hot, and they have been taken to the hospital. Those who are injured were the ones who got closer to the crater.”
Mount Marapi, standing at an imposing height of 2,891 meters (9,484 feet), erupted unexpectedly, triggering this tragic incident. The volcano is currently on the second alert level in Indonesia’s four-step system, leading authorities to enforce a strict three-kilometer exclusion zone around its crater.
The Indonesian archipelago, positioned along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is renowned for its elevated volcanic and seismic activity due to the convergence of continental plates. With nearly 130 active volcanoes, the nation faces ongoing challenges in mitigating the potential risks posed by these geological phenomena.
This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers posed by volcanic activity, urging authorities and individuals alike to remain vigilant and responsive in safeguarding against such natural calamities.
Sources By Agencies
