At least 13 people were killed and dozens were injured after an explosion at the Semeru volcano on the Indonesian island of Java. During this 10 people were saved. This information was given by the Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) on Sunday.
For the past few days, ash and smoke were coming out of the Semeru volcano. The layer of ash and dust emanating from the volcano is so thick that the entire island of Java has become like night during the day. Air services in the region have either been suspended or warnings have been issued. The disaster management agency of East Java province was activated soon after the volcano erupted. Agency chief Budi Santosa said his team was now trying to clear the area near the volcano. The government has issued directions to provide accommodation and food for those displaced by the blast. He also said that two districts of East Java province have been badly affected by the incident. Special attention is being given to these districts. According to media reports, some people were trapped in areas where it was difficult for rescuers to reach.
The volcanic eruption caused a rain of ash, mud and stones from the sky. Due to this a bridge connecting the two main villages of Pronojivo and Candipuro was broken. Airnav Indonesia, the agency that regulates Indonesian airspace, has issued a warning to airlines about ash and dust spreading in the sky.
Semeru is the highest mountain on the island of Java. It is one of Indonesia's 130 active volcanoes and is located in one of the most densely populated provinces. This is the second eruption of this year. The last one happened on January 1st and there were no casualties.