Explosive volcanoes blast hot solid and molten rock fragments, and gases into the air. Ash can fall hundreds of miles downwind, and dangerous mudflows/floods can occur in valleys leading away from volcanoes.
On August 6th, 2015, A smoke cloud from the eruption caused low visibility in the area. Local authorities were forced to close Bali International Airport due to the eruption. Often during eruptions local authorities are uncertain how long transportation shutdowns will continue for. This eruption caused major disruption for domestic tourists, with millions travelling home after the Muslim holiday of Eid.
Bali was also experiencing its peak tourism period, with several thousand people stranded.
SAFEY sends alerts for volcanic eruptions all over the world, and for travelers especially, flight cancellations can occur.
Although it may seem safe to stay inside during an eruption, doing so could be dangerous. Listen to local authorities instructions during evacuation orders.
Our advice for travelers, if caught in an area during a volcanic eruption:
- If you are unable to evacuate, and in order to protect yourself from falling ash, you should remain indoors with doors, windows and ventilation closed until the ash settles.
- If you have a respiratory ailment, avoid contact with any amount of ash. Stay indoors until local health officials advise it is safe to go outside.
- Listen to a battery-powered radio or television for the latest emergency information.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Use goggles and wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses.
- Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to help with breathing.
- Stay away from areas downwind from the volcano to avoid volcanic ash.
- Stay indoors until the ash has settled unless there is a danger of the roof collapsing.
- Close doors, windows, and all ventilation in the house (chimney vents, furnaces, air conditioners, fans and other vents.
- Clear heavy ash from flat or low-pitched roofs and rain gutters.
- Avoid running car or truck engines. Driving can stir up volcanic ash that can clog engines, damage moving parts, and stall vehicles.
- Avoid driving in heavy ash fall unless absolutely required. If you have to drive, keep speed down to 35 MPH or slower.
Our advice for travelers, going to a place after an eruption:
- Flight disruptions, including cancellations, delays and rescheduling, are anticipated and may continue after the conclusion of the airport problems due to a backlog of flights.
- Travelers scheduled to fly are advised to contact the airline or their travel provider to confirm the status of their flight(s).