PIKIRAN RAKYAT - Mount Merapi, located on the border of East Java Province and Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY), emitted hot clouds and volcanic ash on Saturday, March 11, 2023, local time.

Anticipating the negative impacts of Mount Merapi's eruption, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Magelang Regency distributed masks to residents in areas affected by the volcanic ash rain and hot clouds from Mount Merapi on Saturday, March 11, 2023.

According to the @bpbdkabmagelang Instagram account, BPBD Magelang is continuing to survey the areas affected by the volcanic ash rain and hot clouds from Mount Merapi. In addition, masks have already been distributed in the affected areas.

"Based on direct observation in the affected areas, the community is still conducive and safe, and there are no significant impacts or casualties," said BPBD Magelang in its official statement.

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BPBD Magelang urged the public, especially in the disaster-prone area (KRB) of Mount Merapi, to continue to increase their vigilance and preparedness.

They should also always anticipate disruptions due to volcanic ash from Mount Merapi's eruption and be aware of the danger of lahars, especially during rain around Mount Merapi.

In addition, the public is advised to stay away from the danger zone within a 7-km radius of the peak of Merapi.

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Mount Merapi Eruption in Recent History

Mount Merapi, located on the border of Central Java and Yogyakarta in Indonesia, is one of the most active and dangerous volcanoes in the world. From 2000 to 2019, it erupted several times, causing damage to the surrounding area and affecting the lives of thousands of people.

One of the most significant eruptions of Mount Merapi during this period occurred in 2010. The eruption lasted for several months, beginning in October and ending in December. It caused widespread destruction, including the loss of over 300 lives and the displacement of around 400,000 people. The eruption also affected the local economy, with many crops and livestock destroyed and infrastructure damaged.

In addition to the 2010 eruption, Mount Merapi also had several other eruptions during this period. In 2006, a relatively minor eruption caused ash and gas to spew out of the volcano. This eruption did not cause any casualties but forced thousands of people to evacuate their homes.

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Another significant eruption occurred in 2018, which lasted for about six months. This eruption caused ash clouds to cover the surrounding areas and forced the authorities to evacuate tens of thousands of people.

Despite these eruptions, the local authorities have made significant efforts to prepare for potential future eruptions. They have installed early warning systems and evacuation plans, and local communities have been trained in disaster preparedness. These measures have helped reduce the risk of casualties and damage to infrastructure during subsequent eruptions.

In conclusion, the eruptions of Mount Merapi from 2000 to 2019 have caused significant damage to the surrounding areas and affected the lives of thousands of people. However, the authorities' efforts to prepare for potential future eruptions have helped reduce the impact of these disasters.***