Mt. Rokatenda erupts, thousands evacuate

Thousands of residents of the Palue Islands in Sikka, East Nusa Tenggara, have reportedly fled from their homes after their roofs and windows were rattled by erupting of Mount Rokatenda.

Residents were evacuated to Maumere, Sikka, Ropa and Ende as the volcano sent debris and volcanic material cascading down its slopes.

Residents reportedly found it hard to get clean water as many water sources had been contaminated with volcanic ash. Officials have called on residents to protect themselves by wearing masks.