"Mount Marapi Eruption Claims Lives: Death Toll Rises and Climbers Still Missing"

At least 23 hikers are presumed dead and 18 others missing after Mount Marapi, one of Sumatra island's most active volcanoes, erupted in Indonesia. The eruption lasted for 4 minutes and 41 seconds, spewing ash 9,800 feet into the air. Ongoing volcanic activity has hindered rescue efforts, but approximately 50 survivors have been brought down from the mountain for medical treatment. Mount Marapi had been showing increased volcanic activity since January, and an alert level had been issued in November, advising against tourism near the peak.