Breaking: Mount Ruang Erupts Violently, Thousands Evacuated Amidst Tsunami Fears
**JAKARTA, Indonesia –** Mount Ruang, a volcano located in North Sulawesi province, erupted violently on April 17, 2024, prompting authorities to issue a tsunami alert and order the evacuation of over 11,000 residents from the surrounding areas. The eruption, which sent ash plumes thousands of feet into the sky, has raised concerns about the potential for a flank collapse into the sea, similar to a devastating event in 1871.
The volcano on Ruang Island experienced multiple large eruptions throughout April 17 and into April 18. The alert level for Mount Ruang was raised to its highest level, Level 4, by Indonesia’s Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG). This heightened alert status necessitates that people remain at least 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) away from the crater.
Eyewitnesses captured dramatic footage of the eruptions, showing lava and ash spewing into the sky, accompanied by lightning. The eruption plumes reached altitudes of up to 70,000 feet, causing widespread flight cancellations and diversions due to ash hazards to aviation. Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado, the provincial capital, was temporarily closed.
The PVMBG has warned residents of potential hazards including incandescent rocks, hot cloud discharges, and tsunamis caused by volcanic material entering the sea. While no casualties have been reported thus far, over 16,000 residents have been coordinated for evacuation by Indonesian authorities. Many have been relocated to safer areas on neighboring Tagulandang Island and to Manado.
Mount Ruang has a history of significant eruptions, with major events recorded in 1634, 1670, 1843, 1871, 1904, 1956, and 2002. The 1871 eruption is particularly noted for triggering a tsunami that devastated a nearby island village and caused hundreds of deaths. The current series of eruptions began following a period of increased seismic activity and volcanic earthquakes in the region.
As of April 30, 2024, Mount Ruang erupted again, continuing its activity and leading to further evacuations. Around 20,000 people from 12 villages in Tagulandang Resort were affected, with communities within a 4-6 km radius evacuating independently. Volcanic ashfall, measuring 2-5 cm, covered roads and houses, disrupting community activities and making air travel impassable in the North Sulawesi region for several days.
Emergency response efforts are underway, with local authorities and international aid organizations providing assistance. Food, non-food items, health services, and psychosocial support are identified as primary needs for displaced populations. The government has extended the disaster emergency response status for an additional 14 days.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the Mount Ruang area until it is declared safe and to remain vigilant if visiting North Sulawesi, with contingency travel plans advised. The situation remains a developing story as monitoring of the volcano’s activity continues.
**Social Media Verification Status:** Reports and imagery of the Mount Ruang eruption and its impacts have been widely shared on social media platforms. Visual evidence from eyewitnesses and official agencies corroborates the scale of the event, though official statements from Indonesian disaster management authorities (BNPB) and the Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG) serve as primary verification.
**Emergency Contact Numbers:**
For those in affected areas requiring assistance, please refer to local emergency services and disaster management agencies in North Sulawesi. International travelers should contact their respective embassies in Indonesia.
**Developing story**
