Vulcanologist: Mt Rinjani`s Eruption a `Minor` Incident

[Photo by: Reza Trekker]

Mount Rinjani, which spans between three regencies in West Nusa Teggara, erupts again on Tuesday, November 3, 2015, wreaking havoc for the regional aviation services. That said, according to a vulcanologist for the MInistry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Surono, the eruption is of a minor nature.

"The volcano is spewing up material upwards, towards a height of 1,000-1,500 metres above Barujari crater. This is a mere 'roar' and has yet to count as a major eruption," said Surono to Tempo on Wednesday, November 4, 2015.

According to Surono, Mount Rinjani has yet to become a danger for local residents despite its' repetitive eruptions. "We have no data that points out how often will it erupt, but basically it poses no danger for local residents," he said.

Indonesia has the highest number of volcanoes in the world - with 127 volcanoes reported to be active across the archipelago. Several of these volcanoes have been on 'high alert' for quite some times - including Mount Sinabung, which has been on high alert since 2013, as well as Mount Karangetang in North Sulawesi.

Because of the particularly large number of active volcano, the likelihood of an eruption is ever present each year. "I think it's almost inevitable that an eruption is reported every year," he said. "Sinabung has yet to stop erupting, and there are others that are still active."

Surono advises local residents to exercise caution around the eruption zone. "We have to respect volcanoes. Although an eruption could be destructive, it makes the surrounding plains much more fertile and scenic," he said.

Source: TEMPO