An Indonesian guide has recounted the terrifying moments leading a group of hikers up Mount Dukono shortly before the volcano erupted on Friday, claiming the lives of three individuals. The guide, whose identity has not been released, described the sudden onset of volcanic activity, which quickly turned a scenic trek into a desperate flight for safety.
Mount Dukono, located on Halmahera island in North Maluku province, is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes. Its eruption sent plumes of ash and gas high into the sky, forcing immediate evacuations and disrupting local life. While the specific nationalities of the deceased have not been confirmed, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers in regions prone to volcanic activity, which attract a significant number of international tourists, including many from the UK.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently advises against all but essential travel to areas within 2km of the crater of Mount Dukono, as well as several other active volcanoes in Indonesia. This advice is regularly updated to reflect the dynamic geological conditions of the archipelago. British nationals planning travel to Indonesia are urged to check the latest FCDO travel advice before their trip and to be aware of local safety warnings and emergency procedures.
Indonesia sits on the Pacific 'Ring of Fire', an arc of volcanoes and fault lines encircling the Pacific Basin, making it one of the most seismically active regions in the world. The country has approximately 130 active volcanoes, and eruptions are a relatively common occurrence. These events can have significant impacts on local communities, infrastructure, and air travel, potentially causing delays and disruptions for travellers.
The Indonesian government, through its geological agency, continuously monitors volcanic activity and issues warnings to the public. Local authorities have initiated investigations into the circumstances surrounding the hikers' presence on the volcano at the time of the eruption, and rescue efforts for any potential missing persons are ongoing. The long-term implications for tourism in the affected region, particularly for adventure tourism involving volcano treks, will likely be reviewed in light of this tragic event.