1,000 evacuated as Indonesian volcano erupts again

A large eruption of searing hot gas and volcanic debris sent more than 1,000 villagers fleeing from the slopes of Mount Merapi today, a day after Indonesian government scientists lowered the alert level at the mountain.

Most of those who fled from three villages on the mountain’s southern slopes had returned home earlier today after spending several weeks in camps lower down the peak, said villager Edi Egan.

“We were very happy to go back in the morning, but as soon as we got there we saw a massive cloud steaming toward us,” said Egan after arriving back at the camp. “We all decided it was time to leave.”

Government volcanologist Triani said the cloud travelled three miles down the slope and almost enveloped one village.

Despite the eruption, Triani, who goes by a single name, said there were no plans to raise the alert level.