Merapi’s ash cloud forced the change of schedule.

Motorists ride through a dusty street in the Magelang district of Indonesia's central Java province.

Motorists ride through a dusty street in the Magelang district of Indonesia's central Java province.

Published Nov 9, 2010

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Aboard Air Force One - The White House says President Barack Obama will likely have to shorten his trip to Indonesia because of concerns over volcanic ash.

Obama spokesman Robert Gibbs says the current modelling of the ash cloud in Indonesia will likely force Obama to leave Indonesia several hours earlier than planned.

Obama arrived in Indonesia on Tuesday afternoon. Gibbs told reporters travelling with Obama the White House is working on different scenarios for how the president will spend Wednesday morning, including starting his day of events earlier.

Gibbs says it is unclear whether Obama will have to shorten or cancel any events, though he says the White House is hoping Obama can still deliver a speech planned for Wednesday. - Sapa-AP

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