In Indonesia, there was a tragic incident; a tourist lost her life after falling into the crater of an active volcano in East Java, Indonesia. This story is not only heartbreaking but also a critical reminder for all who go on vacation to make sure you follow the safety guidelines.
The incident occurred early Saturday morning at the Ijen volcano park, a popular spot known for its stunning natural phenomenon, “blue fire.” This remarkable sight, which attracts tourists from around the world, is the result of sulfuric gases combusting as they come into contact with air, creating a luminous blue flame visible at night.
Ijen blue fire tour is one of famous tour for all travelers around the world #bluefireijentour #ijencrater #volcanohttps://t.co/OEUSQRAT0h pic.twitter.com/kWrwNhi5c2
— Blue Fire Ijen Tour (@ijen_bluefire) March 12, 2017
The tourist, a 31-year-old woman from China named Huang Lihong, was visiting the volcano with her husband on a guided tour. They had climbed to the peak of the volcano to experience the beautiful sunrise amidst Ijen’s famous blue flames.
From what we know, the tour started off well. Lihong and her group were enjoying the views and taking photos, a common activity at such a scenic location. The tour guide had informed the group about the safety measures and repeatedly warned them to keep a safe distance from the crater’s edge. Initially, Lihong heeded these warnings.
However, the situation took a devastating turn when Lihong, in an attempt to get a better photo, began walking backward towards the edge of the crater. Tragically, she tripped over her long clothing, lost her balance, and fell approximately 250 feet into the volcano’s crater.
Local media shared a photo showing Lihong just before the accident, posing with a leg raised against a backdrop of sulfur gas clouds—a haunting last image.
Tourist dies after plunging 250ft into crater of active volcano in Indonesia ‘while posing for sunrise pictures’🌋
⭕️The victim, named as 31-year-old Chinese national Huang Lihong, fell into the Ijen Crater in Banyuwangi, Indonesia, on April 20, according to local media reports.… pic.twitter.com/CvlyCAqJT5
— Global Dissident (@GlobalDiss) April 22, 2024
Rescue teams worked for about two hours to retrieve her body from the crater. Authorities have since confirmed that her death was an accident. Following the recovery, plans were made to transport her body to Bali and then back to China.
