In pictures: Merapi threatens again

Volcanic activity has increased at Indonesia's Mt Merapi, which has been threatening a major eruption for several weeks.

On Thursday, it sent a spectacular cloud of hot gas 4.5 km (3 miles) down its southern slope, causing thousands of residents to flee.

Lava flows streamed down the mountain and ash clouds appeared throughout the morning.

At least 15,000 residents are reported to have left the area and the government is stepping up emergency preparations.

Many Merapi residents have been staying in refugee camps since the eruptions began, although some have been reluctant to leave their homes.

Scientists believe a severe earthquake two weeks ago in nearby Yogyakarta may have destabilised Mt Merapi even further.

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