Indonesian volcano erupts

SULAWESI ISLAND: A volcano in central Indonesia has erupted, sending columns of thick ash 7,500m into the sky.

Mount Soputan, on the north of Sulawesi island, erupted twice yesterday morning and, in fear of hot ash and lava sliding down its slopes, locals have been urged to avoid activities near the the volcano.

Residents were also warned against the possibility of lava flowing into rivers around the volcano, and were urged to wear masks in case of ash rain.

Authorities kept the volcano’s alert level at the second-highest level.

Soputan, which stands 1,784m, is one of Indonesia’s more than 120 active volcanoes.