UN prepares emergency response to expected volcanic eruption in Indonesia

UN spokesperson Michele Montas told reporters on in New York on Thursday that the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) was closely monitoring the situation after the Government recommended on Tuesday that locals evacuate the area immediately.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has mobilized 100 medical professionals, placed 200 health facilities on alert and established 41 outreach health posts in anticipation of the eruption.

Emergency health kits, masks and other essential equipment are also in place.

UN humanitarian agencies are also taking part in assessment missions, Montas said.