Rising from the ashes: A call for help from Indonesia’s devastating volcanic eruptions

Ash, cinder and toxic gas- the dangerous reality of residents near Indonesia’s Mount Merapi and Mount Semeru, whose alarming eruption resonated throughout the world.

On 3rd December 2023, Mount Merapi, the most active volcano in West Sumatra, spewed up to 10000 feet of volcanic ash and dust into the air, depositing material and strata in uncountable surrounding districts. There were 46 registered explosions, in conjunction with 66 blasts, observed in merely two days. The eruption lasted 4 minutes, affecting numerous West Sumatran cities such as Padang Panjang and Bukittingi. However, the eruptions are yet to have halted. Around 113 eruptions have occurred since early December, the latest incident occurring as recently as 22nd December and 14th January, leading to flight cancellations at nearby airports. Apart from harmful gasses and toxic waste being bombarded into the atmosphere, numerous fatalities were also encountered, with 24 out of 75 hikers pronounced dead. While 49 of them evacuated, unfortunately, 12 of them sustained burns and fractures. Placed at level 3 of a four-tiered volcano alert system, Mt. Merapi poses a significant risk to infrastructure, society and economy.

Indonesia has numerous active volcanoes, given that it is near the Pacific Ring Of Fire. Mount Semeru is another active volcano that exploded on 25th December 2023, resulting in widespread destruction and death. This explosion resulted in a 1km tall eruption column, about 4600 m above sea level. 19 eruptions were recorded, which in turn led to 3 short-lived earthquakes experienced by the surrounding areas. The aftermath of this incident was so fatal that the government forbade civilians to refrain from performing any activities within a 17 km radius of the volcano! Such a warning has disrupted the daily routines and livelihoods of the nearby villagers. 

Despite such horrific disasters, we can make a difference.

In response to the Mount Merapi eruption, international aid organizations are mobilizing resources to assist the affected communities. Donations to reputable charities such as Oxfam International, Mercy Corps, UNICEF, Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies can help direct attention towards the well-being of children and families affected by disasters, providing essential services such as clean water, shelters, food and medical assistance. Additionally, spreading awareness through social media platforms and community engagement helps garner public support, encouraging more extensive aid efforts. The collective efforts of the global community plays a vital role in aiding the affected regions, fostering recovery, and building resilience against future natural disasters. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or raising awareness, individuals can contribute to the ongoing relief and rebuilding initiatives in the aftermath of the Mount Merapi eruption.

 -By Nandita and Gaura