Mon Jan 20 03:49:31 UTC 2025: ## Indonesian Volcano Erupts Over 1,000 Times This Month, Thousands Urged to Evacuate
**Ternate, Indonesia (January 20, 2025)** – Mount Ibu volcano on the remote Indonesian island of Halmahera has erupted over 1,000 times this month, prompting urgent evacuation efforts for thousands of villagers. The Indonesian Geological Agency reported 1,079 eruptions since January 1st, with ash plumes reaching up to 4 kilometers high. The most recent significant eruption occurred on Sunday at 1:15 a.m. local time, accompanied by a loud rumbling sound.
Authorities have called for the evacuation of approximately 3,000 residents from six villages near the volcano, but as of Sunday, only 517 had been successfully relocated. Many villagers have resisted evacuation, citing familiarity with the volcano’s activity and the ongoing harvest season. Military commander Adietya Yuni Nurtono acknowledged the economic concerns but emphasized ongoing efforts to persuade remaining residents to seek safety in designated shelters. The volcano’s continued activity presents a significant risk to the local population.
First Piper 