Evacuations in Bali have begun following the eruption of a volcano near Kuta on the western side of the island, and a state of catastrophe is predicted by officials. The eruption was a volcano known as Mount Monaro and it’s assumed the increasing seismic activity around Mount Agung is to blame.
Over 75,000 people will be evacuated from the area around Mount Agung, at this stage, it is confirmed that 57,000 have been evacuated in the lead up to the volcanoes imminent eruption.
Those evacuated include Australian prisoners from an East Balinese Jail, including Bali Nine members.
The island of Vanuatu is at major risk as well, potentially facing mass evacuation following the eruption of Mount Monaro.
The Indonesian president, Joko Widodo, visited people who are staying in halls, sports centers and other makeshift shelters.
He later confirmed to reporters that officials are doing anything they can to reduce economic losses to the community.
Many locals still remember the devastation the last time the mountain erupted in 1963.
Travellers are being warned to stay alert but not to be alarmed following a state of natural disaster being called before the impending eruption of Bali’s Mount Agung.
Experts say the level of seismic activity now occurring at Mount Agung have reached a record high, leading to extreme precautionary measures being taken by the Island’s governor.
Following protocol, after the issue of a state of natural disaster authorities on the island must make it a priority to create shelter for the thousands and thousands of evacuees.
Mount Agung, known for its beauty and making a claim as the highest point in Bali, the volcano has been worrying officials since August.
People are being told to stay at least 9KM for the volcano.
Travelers are being told to a exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to Bali at this time.
Jetstar and Qantas are closely monitoring volcanic activity at Mount Agung and at this time, all flights to Bali still operating as scheduled.
Jetstar released the following statement:
“Our pilots and meteorologists will continue to monitor the latest information from the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre and we will contact customers individually if there are any changes to our services.”
