Mount Semeru Erupts Again: Authorities Issue Warnings as Ash Columns Rise 900 Meters
Jakarta, January 15, 2025 – Indonesia’s Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on java Island, erupted once again early Wednesday morning, sending a towering ash column approximately 900 meters above its peak.The eruption, which occurred at around 7:06 a.m. local time, was reported by the Semeru Volcano Observation Post (PGA), located in Sumber Wuluh Village, Lumajang.
according to PGA Officer Sigit Rian Alfian, “The ash column was whitish gray in colour and thick, blowing southeast and south.” The eruption was accompanied by seismic activity, including 47 eruption earthquakes recorded over the past 24 hours, with amplitudes ranging from 10 to 22 mm and durations of 60 to 200 seconds. Additionally,one cluster of avalanche earthquakes was detected,along with seven gust earthquakes and two harmonic tremors.
The Center for Volcanology Mitigation and Geological Disaster (PVMBG) has maintained Mount Semeru’s alert status at Level II,urging residents and visitors to exercise caution.Authorities have issued specific recommendations to mitigate risks, including avoiding activities within an 8-kilometer radius of the southeast sector along Besuk Kobokan.
“The public is asked not to carry out activities within a distance of 500 meters from the river bank along Besuk Kobokan due to the potential for hot clouds and lava flows,” the PVMBG stated. They also warned of the dangers of incandescent rocks within a 3-kilometer radius of the crater.
The eruption has raised concerns about potential avalanches of hot clouds and lava along rivers and valleys originating from the peak of Mount semeru, particularly in areas like Besuk Kobokan, besuk Bang, Besuk Kembar, and Besuk Sat.
Key Details of the Eruption
Table of Contents
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Eruption Time | 7:06 a.m. local time, January 15, 2025 |
| Ash Column Height | Approximately 900 meters above the peak |
| Seismic Activity | 47 eruption earthquakes, 1 avalanche cluster, 7 gust earthquakes, 2 harmonic tremors |
| Alert Level | Level II (caution) |
| Restricted Zones | 8 km southeast sector, 500 meters from river banks, 3 km from crater |
This latest eruption follows a history of significant volcanic activity at Mount Semeru, including the deadly 2021 eruption that claimed 69 lives and displaced thousands. The PVMBG continues to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to stay informed and adhere to safety guidelines.
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Stay safe and vigilant as authorities work to manage the ongoing risks posed by this active volcano.
Mount Semeru Eruption: Expert Insights on teh Latest Volcanic Activity and Safety measures
Jakarta, January 15, 2025 – Mount Semeru, java Island’s tallest volcano, erupted once again early Wednesday morning, sending a massive ash column approximately 900 meters into the sky. The eruption, reported by the Semeru Volcano Observation Post (PGA), has prompted authorities to issue warnings and safety recommendations for nearby residents and visitors. To better understand the implications of this event, we spoke with Dr. Arif Wijaya, a renowned volcanologist and disaster mitigation expert, about the eruption’s details, seismic activity, and the ongoing risks posed by Mount Semeru.
The Eruption: Timing and Immediate Observations
Senior Editor: Dr. Wijaya, thank you for joining us. Can you start by describing what happened during this latest eruption of Mount Semeru?
Dr. Arif Wijaya: Certainly. The eruption occurred at 7:06 a.m. local time on January 15, 2025. The ash column reached about 900 meters above the peak, which is a notable height. The PGA reported that the ash was whitish-gray and dense,moving primarily southeast and south.This type of eruption is characteristic of Mount Semeru, which has been active for decades.
Seismic Activity and Monitoring Efforts
Senior Editor: The PGA also noted significant seismic activity leading up to the eruption. Can you elaborate on what was observed?
Dr. Arif Wijaya: Absolutely. In the 24 hours preceding the eruption, there were 47 eruption earthquakes recorded, with amplitudes ranging from 10 to 22 mm and durations of 60 to 200 seconds. Additionally, there was one cluster of avalanche earthquakes, seven gust earthquakes, and two harmonic tremors. These seismic signals are critical for monitoring volcanic activity and predicting potential eruptions.The PVMBG (Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation) has been vigilant in tracking these patterns to issue timely warnings.
Current Alert level and Safety Recommendations
Senior Editor: Mount Semeru’s alert status remains at Level II. What does this mean for residents and visitors in the area?
Dr.Arif Wijaya: Level II indicates a state of caution. While this is not the highest alert level, it still requires heightened awareness. Authorities have advised against any activities within an 8-kilometer radius of the southeast sector, particularly along Besuk Kobokan. Additionally, people should stay at least 500 meters away from riverbanks in the area due to the risk of hot clouds and lava flows. There’s also a 3-kilometer exclusion zone around the crater to protect against incandescent rocks.
historical Context and Long-term Risks
Senior Editor: Mount Semeru has a history of deadly eruptions, including the 2021 event that claimed 69 lives. How does this latest eruption compare, and what are the long-term risks?
Dr. Arif Wijaya: The 2021 eruption was devastating, and while this latest event hasn’t caused similar casualties, it’s a stark reminder of the volcano’s unpredictability. Mount Semeru is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes,and its frequent eruptions pose ongoing risks,particularly to communities in the surrounding valleys.The primary concerns are hot clouds, lava flows, and potential avalanches, especially during the rainy season when volcanic material can mix with water and create perilous lahars.
Community Preparedness and Future Monitoring
Senior Editor: What steps can communities take to prepare for future eruptions, and how is the PVMBG planning to monitor the situation moving forward?
Dr. Arif Wijaya: Community preparedness is crucial. Residents should stay informed through official channels, have evacuation plans in place, and avoid restricted zones. The PVMBG is continuously monitoring seismic activity, gas emissions, and other indicators to provide early warnings. They’re also working with local governments to ensure that emergency response systems are ready to act if the situation escalates.
Final thoughts and advice
Senior Editor: Any final advice for our readers, especially those living near active volcanoes like Mount Semeru?
Dr. Arif Wijaya: My advice is to always prioritize safety. Stay informed about the latest updates from authorities, respect exclusion zones, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary. Volcanic activity can change rapidly, so vigilance is key. Remember, nature is powerful, and our best defense is knowledge and preparedness.
For the latest updates on Mount semeru and other volcanic activity in Indonesia, follow Tempo’s coverage on Google News.
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