Indonesia tsunami: Is it safe to travel to Indonesia and Bali? Which areas are affected?
INDONESIA was devastated by a deadly tsunami which struck overnight without warning – but is it safe to travel to Indonesia and Bali and which areas are affected?
Indonesia: Tsunami hits the coast of Sunda Strait
The tsunami is believed to have been caused by the erupting Anak Krakatau volcano, officials said today.
Anak Krakatau is a volcanic island located in the Sunda Strait between the islands of Java and Sumatra in the Indonesian province of Lampung.
Indonesia's geological agency said the volcano erupted for two minutes and 12 seconds on Friday and produced an ash cloud 1,300ft (400m) above the mountain.
This is the second tsunami to hit Indonesia in less than six months.
Is it safe to travel to Indonesia and Bali?
A statement on the Foreign Office’s website said today: “The coastline around the Sunda Strait which lies between Java and South Sumatra experienced a tsunami/high-tide, with damage and casualties reported.
“If you are in the area, please follow the local authorities’ advice.
“The British Embassy is in contact the Indonesian authorities and monitoring the situation closely.”
The Foreign Office added local authorities will be able to provide more information on the latest news and evacuation zones.
The statement said: “There are many active volcanoes in Indonesia, any of which can erupt with little or no warning.
“This often results in the evacuation of villages within a 3 to 7 kilometre radius and disruption to air travel in the wider region. In the past, repeated eruptions have caused destruction and fatalities.
“Check media reports before travelling to areas that are prone to volcanic activity. The local alert level may change at short notice.
“Take extra care and follow the advice of local authorities, including respecting any exclusion zones.”