At least 3 hikers killed by volcano eruption on Indonesian island
NBC News • • world
Key Points:
- An explosive eruption of Mount Dukono in Indonesia killed three hikers who defied safety restrictions to climb the volcano, which is on high alert and located on Halmahera island.
- The eruption occurred early Friday, sending ash columns about 10 kilometers high and lasting over 16 minutes, trapping around 20 climbers inside the restricted zone.
- Rescue operations evacuated 14 climbers, including seven foreigners, with five injured; however, continued eruptions have prevented recovery of the deceased and full search efforts.
- Authorities have banned activities within 2.5 miles of the crater due to hazards like volcanic bombs and toxic gases, but many climbers ignored warnings, motivated by creating online content.
- Mount Dukono is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, with nearly continuous eruptions since 1933, and recent activity has intensified, prompting officials to warn of ashfall impacts and secondary hazards like volcanic mudflows.
