After two months of waiting it has finally happened. Please don't panic however as it is currently just a plume of smoke thought to contain only a small amount of the ash which can potentially harm people. The above picture was taken just before nightfall.
The eruption began just six hours ago.
It is classified as 'phreatic' meaning that it was a steam-driven explosion which occurs when the water beneath is heated by molten rock and forces its way out.
The wind direction is currently south/south east but should that change to south west there will be many more people affected. Including myself!
In this image you can see the exact location of our highest peak, Mount Agung from which there is currently a 700m high smoke plume.
The official alert status remains at level 3 as there have not been any corresponding earthquakes. Level 4 is the highest.
I saw with my own eyes a beautiful view of Agung this morning at 8am on a flight from Bali to Kuala Lumpur. There was no smoke at this time and all appeared calm. I have just returned to Bali an hour ago so I can confirm the international airport is still open.
Of the 150,000 people who were evacuated only around 30,000 remained...
so many of these people will now be returning to the shelters.
The @charitysteemit account was set up two months ago by @chron and myself with the intention of helping the evacuees by buying them solar panels and water filters. We have raised so far a total of $464.45. Sadly this total has dropped substantially due to the current slump in the value of Steem.
I will be keeping you up to date on exactly what is happening from the @charitysteemit account now, so please take the time to follow there if you want to know what is going on.
Now that the number of evacuees is set to rise dramatically we will be spending this money as was intended.... as soon as possible.
Thank you so much to all those who have already donated 🙏🏻
Volcano smoke can be distressing esp to the respiratory disorder patients and the vegetation in the surrounding region. Hope it does not get to level 4. Stay safe and Stay indoor.
How far is that Mt. From your residence?
We are around 40k from the volcano. Outside of the danger zone. And today the wind direction is still south east so for now nothing to worry about. Many people have masks already. Those who don't are putting plastic on their windows and preparing for the worst.
Precautions are important and mandatory in such conditions.
No panic around here ;) In fact, I feel a burning desire to get closer and launch my drone!!!
😂😂😂
oh no it finally happened. hope it doesn't get too bad. We want to come back to Bali beginning of February. hope its over till than
So far so good. Wind direction still south east. Only time will tell...
thats true. hope it will be all good. stay safe!
Hey Sam Nice post stay safe my friend
We will. Thank you for your concern.
very great and beautifull news you today.I like your all post. very very great your post.
I can't help but panic. No one knows what can happen.
Please keep us posted.
Better to focus your mind on the happiness & safety of the Balinese people. Never any need for panic ;)
And I most certainly will keep you posted...