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A volcano has erupted, propelling an 800m ash column into the sky. Mount Semeru on Indonesia's main island of East Java has exploded three times, prompting terrified locals to seek safety. ‌

Thousands have been evacuated to secure locations. The initial eruption took place at 4.10am Western Indonesian Time (WIB), with observers noting a plume reaching roughly 500 metres above the summit. ‌

Seismograph readings indicated a maximum amplitude of 22mm and a duration of 142 seconds, according to Mukdas Sofian, an officer at the Mount Semeru Observation Post. ‌

Java Island's highest peak then erupted again at 5.09am, followed by a third explosion at 6.05am today (November 19). The Australia Volcanic Ash Advisory has issued a red aviation warning as the ash plume has ascen

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