Indonesia's Mount Ruang Volcano Erupts

 Indonesia's Mount Ruang Volcano Erupts, Forcing Thousands to Evacuate and Airlines to Cancel Flights

A remote Indonesian volcano, Mount Ruang, has erupted again, prompting fresh evacuation orders and flight cancellations. The volcano, located on Ruang Island in North Sulawesi province, has been erupting on and off since mid-April, posing a significant threat to nearby residents and air traffic in the region.

The latest eruptions have triggered a highest-level alert from Indonesia's national PVMBG volcanology agency, warning of a potential tsunami due to "volcanic material collapsing into the ocean." The agency has advised people to wear protective masks and exercise caution.

Over 12,000 people have been ordered to evacuate, with many awaiting transportation at ports. The eruptions have also forced the closure of at least seven airports in the vicinity, including the Sam Ratulangi International Airport, which serves the city of Manado, a popular scuba diving destination.

Schools in the area have been shut to protect children from volcanic ash, which has reached eastern Malaysian airspace. Regional carrier Air Asia has canceled 21 flights, and Malaysia's national carrier Malaysia Airlines has issued travel advisories.

Mount Ruang is a stratovolcano, known for producing explosive eruptions due to gas buildup in the magma. The volcano previously erupted in April, disrupting over 200 flights and affecting tens of thousands of passengers.

The Indonesian archipelago, home to 270 million people, sits along the Ring of Fire and has more than 120 active volcanoes, making it a hotspot for volcanic activity. The country's national disaster management authority, BNPB, is closely monitoring the situation and providing updates on the eruptions and evacuation efforts.

The eruptions have caused significant disruptions, with many people forced to flee their homes and seek shelter elsewhere. The situation is being closely monitored, and authorities are working to ensure the safety of those affected.

In addition to the immediate risks, the eruptions have also raised concerns about the potential long-term effects on the environment and local communities. The volcano's ash and gas emissions can have a significant impact on air quality and marine life, and the ongoing eruptions will likely continue to pose a threat to the region for some time.

As the situation continues to unfold, authorities are urging people to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders and travel advisories. The eruptions serve as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of volcanic activity and the importance of being prepared for natural disasters.