Red alert as massive volcano threatens eruption

Authorities are preparing for the possible evacuation of villagers living close to one of Indonesia’s deadliest volcanos after warning that the rumbling mountain could blow its top anytime.

Increased activity at Mount Merapi on Java Island prompted volcanologists last week to raise its status to “Beware”, one notch below the highest level that requires immediate evacuation of the thousands of villagers who farm its fertile slopes.