Hospitalized Survivor Recounts Terrifying Experience during Mount Marapi Eruption, Reveals Story to BBC

Muhammad Fadli and his friends were on Mount Marapi when the ground suddenly started shaking, signaling the beginning of the volcano's eruption. In an attempt to seek shelter, they hid behind a pile of rocks. However, Muhammad was struck by a rock the size of a human fist which broke his finger, and another rock broke his leg. The eruption caused a 3km ash cloud, resulting in the death of 22 people and one hiker still missing. Muhammad, who was treated in the hospital, described the thick black smoke that covered the skies, making it impossible to see their surroundings. He and his friends were separated from the rest of the group and had to navigate their way down the treacherous mountain while avoiding the heat cloud. They eventually found a phone signal and called for help, but had to wait eight hours for assistance to arrive. Muhammad expressed relief when rescuers finally reached them. Despite their injuries, he and his friends managed to survive. Another hiker, Zhafirah Zahrim Febrina, also suffered burns and trauma from the eruption. Mount Marapi has had an Alert status since 2011, and hikers are usually advised to stay away from the top of the mountain. However, it is unclear if these rules were enforced before the hikers' climb. Located in Sumatra, Mount Marapi is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes, and the country experiences high volcanic and seismic activity due to its position on the Pacific Ring of Fire.