Mount Kelud volcanic eruption in Indonesia

Mount Kelud erupted in Indonesia at 22:50 (local time) on 13 February. 100,000 people have been evacuated and it is estimated that as many as 200,000 people may be affected.

The volcano is located on the island of Java, and the eruption has spread ash and debris as far as 200 km away. The sound of the eruption was reportedly heard in the city of Surabaya, 130 km away. The closest towns to the volcano are almost entirely blanketed in ash, providing a breathing hazard for anyone in the area.

The volcano began to show signs of activity several weeks ago, but had not erupted since 1990 when approximately 30 people were killed. Two people have been reported killed in this latest eruption. Residents were warned of the threat 90 minutes before the eruption began, when the volcano's activity increased.

Indonesia's disaster agency believes that the eruption has stopped but ash and debris still remain a hazard. Six airports have been closed on the island due to the risk posed by the ash.

Mount Sinabung, on the neighbouring island of Sumatra, also erupted recently; killing almost 15 people.