Indonesia, Mount Ijen volcanic activity releases toxic gas

National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB) of Indonesia reported that volcanic activity in Mount Ijen (Bondowoso and Banyuwangi regencies, East Java Province) releases hazardous gas on 22 March 2018. Preceding the release of the gas, there were three phreatic eruptions. However, Volcano and Geological Disasters Mitigation Center (PVMBG) maintains Alert Level I (Normal) for Mount Ijen. PVMBG also reported there were 19 shallow volcanic tremors. As the results, 30 people were injured and being treated in Sempol Health Center (24 persons), Koesnadi Hospital (2 persons) and Tlogosari Health Center (6 persons). In total, 178 people were evacuated from Margahayu, Krepekan, Watucapil and Kebun Jeruk villages to Sempol Mosque (Bondowoso Regency). Local Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) Bondowoso with Indonesian Armed Forces, Police and related agencies prioritized public evacuation. In addition, 25 thousands masks have been distributed and 20 ambulances have been deployed. Local government further closed the access to Mount Ijen for tourists and public.