Indonesia’s Mount Dukono Erupts, Aviation Alert Issued

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Jakarta, Feb 20 (IANS): Mount Dukono, an active volcano in Indonesia’s North Maluku province, erupted on Thursday, sending a thick column of ash 2,000 meters into the sky. The eruption prompted Indonesia’s Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Centre to issue an aviation warning to mitigate potential flight disruptions.

A Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) has been issued at the orange level, the second-highest alert, advising aircraft to avoid flying below 5 km around the volcano due to the presence of ash clouds.

Authorities have also cautioned residents, visitors, and tourists to stay at least 4 km away from the Malupang Warirang crater, an active part of Mount Dukono. Locals are advised to keep face masks handy to protect themselves from airborne ash and potential respiratory hazards.

Standing at 1,087 meters above sea level, Mount Dukono is one of Indonesia’s 127 active volcanoes.

Indonesia has seen increased volcanic activity in recent months. Last month, Mount Merapi, near the densely populated city of Yogyakarta, erupted five times, releasing lava flows up to 1,900 meters.

Earlier, on October 3, 2024, Mount Merapi emitted 21 lava flows towards the southwest, prompting warnings from the Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development Centre.

Standing at 2,968 meters, Mount Merapi is Indonesia’s most active volcano, frequently posing risks to nearby communities.

Authorities continue to monitor volcanic activity across the country, urging residents in high-risk areas to stay alert for further advisories.


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