The Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Center (PVMBG) Bukittinggi reported that Mount Marapi, which lies between Tanah Datar and Agam regencies, West Sumatra, erupted at 10:10 a.m., on Sunday.

'The volcano's eruption spewed a column of thick, gray ash 350 meters high,' PVMBG official Warseno said on Sunday as quoted by Antara news agency.

Mt. Marapi's alert level has been maintained at waspada or caution (level 2). The PVMBG has said it is not safe to be within 3 kilometers of the activity.

Increased volcanic activity was noted on Aug. 3, 2011 with an eruption and a volcanic ash cloud that covered several areas, including Agam, Padang Panjang, Padang Pariaman and Tanah Datar.

Mt. Marapi, which is located near to the twin volcanos of Mt.Singgalang and Mt. Tandikek, is a popular climbing destination, particularity during December as scores of climbers flock to its accessible peak to see in the New Year.

Marapi Wildlife Reserve is an administrative area around the volcano that is managed by the West Sumatra administration for the purposes of conservation in the province.(ebf)