Indonesia’s Mount Merapi volcano erupts, tourism halts due to toxic gas and lava flows

Mount Merapi, the most active volcano in Indonesia, erupted on Saturday, sending hot gas clouds and volcanic ash into the air and causing lava flow. As per the reports, the volcanic ash blanketed several villages in the area.

If reports are to go by, tourism in the area, as of now, has been halted due to the presence of toxic gas and the lava flow. There are no reports of any casualties from the area but residents and visitors are advised to steer clear of the area.

Mount Merapi volcano is located on the border of Central Java and Yogyakarta provinces. The mountain is situated just 30 km from Yogyakarta.

As per reports, Mount Merapi was already on the country’s second-highest alert level after the eruptions of 2020. The last major eruption of Mount Merapi was back in 2010, but since then there have been frequent minor volcanic eruptions with hot gas and lava flows.

There are more than 120 active volcanoes in Indonesia and Mount Merapi is the most active amongst all. Despite being one the most dangerous volcanoes in the world, Mount Merapi is a famous tourist destination. Mount Merapi, along with other volcanoes like Mount Semeru and Mount Bromo, continues to be a popular adventure destination in Indonesia.

Mount Merapi offers stunning hiking trails that lead to the summit. Sunrise hike is the most popular hike around here. The view from the summit is an unforgettable one. That, and the thrill of climbing a volcano are reasons why adventure seekers throng this place.