Survivor recounts harrowing ordeal during Mount Marapi eruption
Muhammad Fadli, a survivor of the recent Mount Marapi eruption, shared his terrifying experience from his hospital bed. Fadli and three of his friends were near the peak of the popular Indonesian volcano when the eruption unexpectedly began.
As the eruption began, Fadli narrowly avoided a rock the size of a human fist, but it broke his finger. Another rock struck his leg, causing a fracture. The eruption generated a massive 3km ash cloud that led to the death and injury of several hikers.
Fadli vividly described the scene, stating that thick black smoke covered the sky, obstructing their vision. Despite the challenging conditions, he and his companions slowly descended the mountain, desperate to find shelter from the intense heat.
After what felt like an eternity, they managed to find a phone signal and promptly contacted the National Search and Rescue Agency for help. Fadli expressed immense relief when rescuers arrived after a grueling eight-hour wait.
Mount Marapi, known as one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, has been a popular destination for hikers. However, Fadli and other survivors claimed there were no signs of an imminent eruption when they first began their climb.
Another survivor, Zhafirah Zahrim Febrina, also reached out for help in a video message to her mother. Febrina suffered severe burns and is currently undergoing treatment in the hospital.
It is worth noting that Mount Marapi has been under an Alert status since 2011, urging residents to stay away from its peak. The West Sumatra Natural Resource Conservation Agency has implemented rules for climbing the mountain, although it remains unclear if these regulations were enforced before the hikers embarked on their ill-fated journey.
The recent eruption of Mount Marapi serves as a stark reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature. Hikers and mountaineers are cautioned to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines to avoid such tragic incidents in the future.
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