Indonesian volcano erupts for first time in 400 years

A volcano in western Indonesia spewed hot lava and sand high into the sky early today in its first eruption in 400 years.

Government volcanologist Surono, who uses only one name, said Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra province started rumbling a few days ago and the minor eruption has now mostly stopped.

It sent sand and ash up to a mile high but lava only moved near the crater. It caused no major damage “but only dust covered plants and trees”, he said.

Mount Sinabung last erupted in 1600, he said, so observers do not know the volcano’s eruption pattern and are monitoring it for more activity.

Evacuations on the volcano’s slopes started on Friday at the first signs of activity. Up to 10,000 people who fled are staying in government buildings, houses of worship and other evacuation centres in two nearby towns.