Latest volcanic eruption shows challenge to Indonesia from its 'ring of fire'
(Reuters) - A deadly lava flow at the weekend that killed five people and sent hundreds fleeing illustrates the formidable challenges Indonesia faces in coping with the constant threat of eruptions from the world's largest number of active volcanoes.
Mt Rokatenda at the eastern end of the archipelago off the island of Flores, on Saturday became the fifth serious volcanic eruption in just three years.
The most deadly in recent memory was Mt Merapi, near the densely populated city of Yogyakarta in central Java, which erupted in late 2010, killing over 350 people. .
"Observation centres in Indonesia have equipment that can detect an increase in geophysical or geochemical activity. So, if there are increasing tremors, it might be a sign of an imminent eruption," said Dr. Agung Harijoko, associate professor of volcanology at Gajah Mada University in central Java, Indonesia's main island.
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One of the world's fastest growing economies, Indonesia straddles the "Pacific ring of fire" with nearly 130 active volcanoes, more than any other country.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2013/08/12/uk-indonesia-volcano-idUKBRE97B0B620130812
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