11 dead, 12 missing after Mount Marapi volcano erupts in Indonesia

The bodies of 11 climbers were recovered on Monday, Dec. 4 following the Mount Marapi volcano eruption. At press time, Indonesian rescuers were still searching for 12 other climbers. The eruption on Sunday, Dec. 3 released thick columns of ash up to 9,000 feet high, blanketing nearby villages and towns in West Sumatra.

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Three survivors were found and transported with burns and breathing difficulties.

Falling ash covered several villages, blocking sunlight, prompting authorities to distribute masks and advise residents to wear eyeglasses for protection from volcanic ash.

Approximately 1,400 people reside on Marapi’s slopes in Rubai and Gobah Cumantiang, the nearest villages located about 3 miles from the peak.

Marapi has been active since a January 2023 eruption that resulted in no casualties. It is one of over 120 active volcanoes in Indonesia, positioned in the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an arc of volcanoes and fault lines encircling the Pacific Basin.