Three hikers, including two foreign nationals, have been killed and 10 others are missing after Mount Dukono erupted on Indonesia’s Halmahera Island, sending an ash column nearly 10 kilometres into the sky.
According to Beyond Time News, the eruption occurred in a restricted area already declared unsafe due to increased volcanic activity.
Casualties and Search Operation
North Halmahera police confirmed the deaths of two foreign hikers and one Indonesian from Ternate Island. Seven people managed to descend safely, while search teams continue efforts to locate 10 missing climbers. Five injured hikers have also been reported.
Rescue operations are being carried out in difficult terrain, with volcanic activity and tremors slowing progress.
Ash Cloud Warning
The eruption produced a large ash plume drifting toward northern areas, prompting authorities to warn nearby communities, including Tobelo City, about possible ash fall and related health risks.
20 Hikers Missing After Indonesia Volcano Eruption
Safety Warnings Ignored
Authorities said Mount Dukono was already under a level two alert with a four-kilometre exclusion zone in place due to rising activity. Despite warnings, some hikers reportedly entered the restricted area.
Volcanic Risk in Indonesia
Indonesia lies on the Pacific “Ring of Fire” and has nearly 130 active volcanoes, making it highly prone to frequent eruptions and seismic activity.
