(5/8/2010)
Lombok's Gunung Barujari part of the Gunung Rinjani volcano complex on the island of Lombok has been placed on a "caution" (waspada) list by Indonesian officials following a rash of continuing explosions, sometimes throwing molten ash 1,200 meters skyward.
Lombok is the nearest major island 54 nautical miles east of Bali.
On Tuesday, May 4, 2010, the mountain spewed thick chocolate-colored smoke. Gunung Barujari is 2,376 meters high and is conjoined with Gunung Rinjani which stand 3,726 meters tall.
According to Kun Dwi Santoso, the chief of the Mitigation of Disasters Section of the Geological and Mineral Resource service from the Mining and Energy Department for West Nusa Tenggara, a large explosion on Monday, May 3rd created 1,500 meter high ash cloud. Smaller explosions followed in short duration. On Tuesday the seismic station at Gunung Rinjani recorded a series of strong explosion.
Officials have responded to the mountains volcanic activity by declaring the area under a general caution for those living near the mountain and tourists climbing the Rinjani's peak. Ash falling on the north slope of the mountain has also interferred with farmers' crops.
Scientist are concerned that the volcano may increase in intensity, emitting more smoke and hot lava.
Kun also warned people climbing to the volcanic lake of Segara Anak of the possible accumulation of poisonous gas on or near the lake.
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