Indonesia's volatile volcano Mount Merapi, has spewed another searing cloud of ash down its slopes. The latest eruption, sparked fresh panic and chaos, among thousands of villagers, living nearby the volcano.

Sirens and loudspeakers blared as panicked villagers jumped into rivers to escape the volcano's searing heat. Others sprinted down the mountain or sped off in cars and trucks.

Earlier on Saturday, more than 2,000 troops were deployed to evacuate residents.

It wasn't clear if Sunday's eruption caused any new casualties.

An evacuated resident of Indonesia said, "We fear any loud noises that come from the volcano. The ash is so dark, it's terrifying."

The crisis came as rescuers finally resumed food deliveries and evacuated those affected by last week's tsunami triggered by a 7.7-magnitude earthquake.

Local authorities say the three-minute blast sent hot ash tumbling down Mount Merapi's southern and eastern slopes for about four kilometers.

Dr. R Sukhyar from Indonesia Military of Energy said, "We urge the public to remain on high alert. Residents should remain in evacuation shelters until it is safe to return."

So far, more than 53,000 people have been evacuated around the volcano.

It has erupted three times in the past week, killing at least 38 people.