On Wednesday, December 28th, authorities announced that at least four people were killed and more than 12 others wounded due to heavy downpours that triggered flows of cold lava, rocks and others debris streaming from the mouth of Mount Gamalama, located in the Molucca Islands. The fast-moving mudflows have affected the villages nearby the volcano and at least 1,000 inhabitants have fled their homes due to the threat.
Mount Gamalama volcano erupted on December 4th. No casualties or damages were reported at the time. Indonesia is prone to natural disasters, especially earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, due to its location on the “Ring of Fire”, an arc of volcanoes and fault lines encircling the Pacific Basin.
Travellers are advised to avoid the affected area and to monitor local and international media in order to get updated information. Listen to all recommendations given by local authorities. If you are told to evacuate, do so and follow specific routes.
