Mount Sinabung in Indonesia’s North Sumatra province has erupted again, sending a column of black ash and smoke approximately 3,500 meters into the sky.

The eruption occurred on Monday. No deaths, evacuations or disruptions to flights have been reported so far.

Authorities have warned residents of Karo Regency, as well as visitors and tourists, not to carry out activities in villages surrounding the volcano or within a 6-kilometer radius of the summit.

Villages covered in volcanic ash

Several villages in Karo Regency were affected by the eruption. Roads, vehicles and buildings were covered with a layer of grey volcanic ash.

Local authorities distributed masks to residents to help protect them from the potential health effects of the ash.

The Geological Agency of Indonesia raised the volcano’s alert status to the second-highest level, known as “Alert,” and expanded the designated safe zone around the 2,600-meter-high volcano.

Authorities warn of a possible larger eruption

Lana Saria, head of the Geological Agency, said the current eruption was considered an “initial-stage eruption” and warned that a larger eruption could occur.

The agency had previously obtained visual evidence of increased volcanic activity at Sinabung in mid-August. Following the recording of dozens of volcanic earthquakes in the area, authorities had recommended restrictions on activities around the volcano.

Volcanic activity around Mount Sinabung has forced approximately 30,000 people to leave their homes over the past several years.

Located on the Ring of Fire

Indonesia, home to more than 280 million people, lies along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity.

The country has more than 120 active volcanoes, with Mount Sinabung among the most active.

Authorities continue to monitor the volcano and have urged residents and visitors to follow safety instructions as volcanic activity develops. (ILKHA)