As a volcano erupted on Indonesia's Sulawesi Island, more than 2,100 people living near it were evacuated on April 19 because of the dangers of ash, falling rocks, hot volcanic clouds, and a potential tsunami. 

Since the afternoon of April 19, at least three eruptions have been recorded by Indonesia's volcanology center, with the eruption column reaching a maximum height of 1,200 meters (3,900 ft).

A possible tsunami and damage 

Officials are concerned about the collapse of part of the volcano into the sea, thereby triggering a tsunami similar to the 1871 one. 

Grey volcanic ash took over houses, roads, and other buildings, with many roofs broken by debris from the eruption.

A joint team from local authorities swept through the villages around the volcano and evacuated residents to safer areas by boats, with more than 11,000 people asked to leave their homes.

As the volcanic ash scattered into the air, an international airport in Manado City, less than 100km (60 miles) from the erupting Mount Ruang, stayed temporarily shut down. 

According to a statement from Indonesia’s transportation ministry, satellite imagery from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency showcased that the ash had reached the west, northwest, northeast, and southeast to take over Manado and North Minahasa.

The head of the regional airport authority, Ambar Suryoko said, "We are still monitoring developments in the eruption of Mount Ruang and coordinating with relevant stakeholders … to anticipate the necessary actions to ensure flight safety, security, and comfort."

Earlier this week

At least five large eruptions took place on April 17 in Mount Ruang, pushing the volcanology center to issue its highest level of alert as people were asked to stay at least six kilometers (3.7 miles) from the 725-meter mountain (2,378 ft).

On April 19, the agency observed white smoke rising from the main crater with medium to thick intensity. 

Tagulandang Island, whose residents were also asked to evacuate, east of the volcano, could be at risk if a collapse happens.

Indonesia’s disaster agency announced that residents would be relocated to Manado, a journey of six hours by boat.