Chinese tourist falls into active volcano, dies while clicking pictures
A 31-year-old Chinese tourist, Huang Lihong, lost her life after falling into an active volcano in Indonesia. The incident occurred during a guided tour to Ijen—a popular volcano park in East Java. Lihong was with her husband, Zhang Yong, at the crater's edge to witness the sunrise when she tripped while posing for a photograph and fell into the volcano. The country is home to approximately 130 active volcanoes, with many Indonesians living and working in close proximity to them.
Lihong was at a safe distance from volcano's edge
According to local guides, Lihong was initially at a safe distance from the volcano's edge. However, while backing up for photos, she tripped over her clothing and fell into the volcano's mouth. The specifics of her attire at the time of the accident are yet to be clarified. A photo circulating on social media shows Lihong posing with one leg raised against a backdrop of sulfur gas clouds moments before her fall.
Lihong's death ruled as accidental by local law enforcement
Following the tragic incident, local law enforcement arrived at the scene and initiated an investigation. They have ruled Lihong's death as accidental. A nearly two-hour operation was undertaken to recover her body from the volcano. Reports indicate that Lihong's remains will be transported to Bali before being repatriated to China.
Indonesia is home to approximately 130 active volcanoes
Ijen volcano, where the incident occurred, is famous for its "blue fire," a result of sulfuric gases combustion. Despite occasional releases of small amounts of harmful gases, it remains accessible to visitors. The incident sheds light into the dangers of venturing closer to volcanoes and other such volatile geographical features. Just days ago, authorities closed an airport, and residents evacuated homes near an erupting volcano owing to the risk of spreading ash, falling boulders, heated volcanic clouds, and a tsunami.
