Indonesia volcano: residents reluctant to leave villages
Reuters
Authorities raced to evacuate residents reluctant to leave affected villages from the erupting Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano in Indonesia's Flores Timur on Sunday (10 November).
The 1,584-metre-high (5,196.85-ft.) volcano has continued to spew volcanic material from its crater for a week since November 3, prompting authorities to expand the danger area and increasing the number of evacuees.
"This volcanic ash is more directed towards Maumere so many villages are affected," explained Maumere Police Officer, Agustinus Silvester. "Most of them are displaced due to the impact of this volcanic ash."
However, facing a limited supply of vehicles, the authorities could only evacuate those who were willing to leave.
"We plan to evacuate some of the remaining residents again but due to our limited transport fleet, we will wait. As soon as we can, there will be (further) evacuation for the remaining villagers," he added.
Others, like 48-year-old villager, Matheus Budi, would rather evacuate on his own.
"I'd rather evacuate by myself because I have fields and plants here so I can collect and sell the crops (in order to survive)," he said.
The Indonesian Volcanology Agency plans to expand to 9 km from 8 km (5 miles) the zone southwest to northwest of the crater that people are not allowed to enter, head of the agency said on Saturday (9 November).
17:56
Reykjanes Peninsula Eruptions: A Timeline of Volcanic Activity Since 2021
Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, active again after 800 years, has seen repeated volcanic eruptions since 2021. From lava fountains to massive fissures, eruptions have reshaped the landscape, attracting tourists while prompting evacuations and safety warnings.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment