Jakarta, Indonesia – Known for its high volcanic activity, Indonesia is home to 127 potentially active volcanoes, with several erupting on any given day. While most eruptions are minor, the country has also witnessed some of the largest explosive volcanic events in history. Notable eruptions include Krakatoa in 1883, Tambora in 1815, and Toba around 73,800 years ago, leaving lasting impacts locally and globally.
In recent days, Ruang, a volcano off the northern tip of Sulawesi, has experienced significant explosions, generating pyroclastic flows, lava bombs, ash fall, and volcanic lightning. The Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Center has issued alerts about ash reaching heights of up to 63,000 feet, prompting concerns about the safety of nearby residents.
One particularly massive eruption on the evening of April 17 resulted in the evacuation of 800 people on the island and the closure of the Manado City airport due to ash fallout. Authorities also issued a potential tsunami warning, although no tsunami was triggered.
Ruang has a history of large eruptions, including a VEI 4 event in 2002. While the recent eruption has not met the criteria for significant climate impact, experts continue to monitor the situation closely. The key factors determining a volcanic eruption’s global effects include the amount of aerosols released, duration, intensity, and location.
While the impact of the Ruang eruption remains uncertain, past events like the 1991 Pinatubo eruption, which significantly cooled the planet, serve as a reminder of the potential consequences of volcanic activity. Authorities in Indonesia are keeping a vigilant eye on Ruang to assess any future developments and ensure the safety of the population.