Post by : Shakul
A comprehensive search operation is currently in progress for two Singaporean tourists who went missing after the sudden eruption of Mount Dukono in North Maluku province, Indonesia, early Friday morning. The Indonesian disaster authorities reported that the volcano erupted around 7:41 a.m. local time, sending a towering ash cloud nearly 10 kilometers into the atmosphere, causing chaos among both hikers and locals in the vicinity.
As per Indonesia's Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation, the eruption generated a thick ash plume with varying colors from white and grey to deep black, spreading northward from the crater. During the incident, authorities noted various intensity levels of rumbling sounds and strong volcanic tremors lasting over 16 minutes, indicating significant internal pressure beneath the volcano.
Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency, confirmed that there were 20 hikers, including nine from Singapore, present on the volcano when the eruption occurred. While many hikers managed to evacuate safely, the search continues for the two missing Singaporean tourists, as rescue teams grapple with challenging terrain and unstable volcanic conditions.
Local disaster management officials, alongside Search and Rescue teams, promptly initiated emergency operations in North Halmahera Regency after reports of the missing hikers emerged. Drones and aerial surveillance equipment have been deployed to assist in the search for signs of the tourists, but rescuers are contending with reduced visibility and hazardous conditions caused by volcanic ash.
Mount Dukono, one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes, has a history of frequent eruptions and is located on Halmahera Island in North Maluku, under constant observation by geological experts. Indonesia is part of the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region known for significant volcanic and seismic activities, making eruptions commonplace.
Authorities have advised both residents and tourists to steer clear of the volcano's danger zone amid ongoing volcanic activity. They are monitoring air quality and potential impacts on surrounding communities due to ash fall and erratic weather. Emergency responders remain vigilant as experts assess the volcanic activity levels.
The incident has drawn international attention owing to the involvement of foreign hikers and the magnitude of the eruption. Families of the missing individuals are reportedly in communication with officials in Singapore while rescue efforts persist. Indonesian disaster authorities emphasized that search operations will continue until all missing persons are accounted for and the area is deemed safe.
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