It's being called Merapi's largest eruption so far, unleashing ash clouds and gas that have reached villages in areas many thought were safe from the volcano's eruptions.

The latest eruption Friday killed at least 69 people and injured 77 others, hospital officials said. In all, as many as 113 people have died since Merapi began erupting October 26.

Local television showed men, women and children fleeing from their homes on motorcycles and trucks. Rescuers carried elderly people to safety. Evacuees huddled in a stadium, government buildings and schools.

The children's charity Plan International has launched an appeal to help 20,000 people fleeing the mountain.

The danger zone was expanded to 20 kilometers (12 miles), after Friday's eruption reached villages once believed safe. Nearly 75,000 people have been evacuated, according to Indonesia's National Disaster Management Board.