A volcano on the eastern island of Halmahera erupted, emitting a 5 km-high ash cloud, according to the country’s volcanology agency. In addition, the country’s disaster agency (BNPB) issued a warning of flash floods and frigid lava flow.

The agency stated in its warning that tourists and locals should maintain a minimum 7-kilometer distance from the active crater. “The ash column is grey with thick intensity and leaning towards the southwest,” the agency said. 

Since April, when authorities detected an increase in volcanic activity, seven villages have been evacuated. (ILKHA)