’QUAKES IN JAVA

Press, Volume C, Issue 29509, 10 May 1961, Page 17

’QUAKES IN JAVA

Volcano Active

(N.Z ,P-A.-Heuter—Copyright) DJAKARTA. May 8. Central Java shook under earthquakes yesterday as 9000 ft Mount Merapi blasted rocks, lava and ash from its glorying erater. The cities of Jogjakarta and Magelang both rocked under a short series of tremors, which cracked walls in Jogjakarta. No casualties have been reported. Meanwhile, the Indonesian Government is clearing villagers from around the flaming mountain. which burst into activity one month ago. Twenty thousand persons have been evacuated and one abandoned hamlet was destroyed by lava flows. More than 79 families have accepted a Government offer of assisted emigration to newly-opened land in Borneo and Sumatra. The provincial government is prepared to evacuate the entire Merapi area should it become necessary. Food Supply The sick and old, children and expectant mothers have been asked to leave. Those who elect to stay have been told to keep a three days’ supply of food and other essentials with them. Merapi peak is clothed in thick clouds and smoke by day, while the crater spouts flame during the night. Lava flows have been creeping down past the 1009 ft level and heavy explosions are taking place within the mountain. Showers of ash have covered riceland near Merapi, and rained down on cities throughout the province.