Merapi volcano (Central Java, Indonesia), eruption update: strong explosions and pyroclastic flows

Strong ash exlosions and the growth of the lava dome continue at Merapi volcano. Yesterday and today, several medium-sized pyroclastic flows reached up to 4 km distance into the river canyons of Kali Gendol, Lamat, Senowo, and Krasak. Several thousands of inhabitants not yet evacuated are reported to have fled the area in panic. Two persons dies in a related road accident.