Indonesian authorities remain on high alert as they anticipate additional eruptions from a remote island volcano that resulted in the evacuation of thousands of people earlier this week. Meanwhile, residents in the vicinity are clearing debris following the downpour of molten rocks on their villages.

Mount Ruang erupted multiple times within a 24-hour period, starting late Tuesday, creating a captivating display of fiery orange lava, a towering ash column, and volcanic lightning.

While officials have reported a calmer situation on Friday, they have maintained the highest alert level on the four-tiered system, indicating significant volcanic activity.

According to AFP, hundreds of locals on the neighboring Tagulandang island were observed cleaning up volcanic materials from the harbor and their yards on Friday morning, with the assistance of soldiers and police officers.

Some individuals shared their accounts of panic and the rush to find safety when the eruption commenced.

“I evacuated. There was a house. I stayed there. And then it rained and rocks fell. I prayed, ‘God have mercy, please help me God,'” recounted Ninice Hoata, a 59-year-old teacher.