Indonesia: Warning issued after Mount Karangetang eruption

Authorities in Sitaro Islands Regency, North Sulawesi, have issued a public warning following the eruption of Mount Karangetang on Sunday evening. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is urging residents living in areas near river channels flowing from the volcano to remain vigilant.

Sonny Belseran, head of the emergency response division at BPBD Sitaro, stated that the public should "increase vigilance and remain cautious, especially at night." The warning comes after an eruption occurred around 7:14 PM local time, characterized by a small explosive sound from the northern crater. An eruption column reached an estimated height of 300 to 400 meters.

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The Sitaro Regency government, in this case BPBD, urges residents around the river to remain vigilant and cautious, especially at night.

Volcanic material flowed northwest for approximately 700 to 1,000 meters, between Kali Batu Bulan and Kawahang. The eruption also caused dry grass around the summit to ignite, creating the appearance of a larger fire due to reflections in the clouds. Despite the activity, Mount Karangetang's alert level remains at Level II (Waspada/Alert).

BPBD Sitaro implored residents to adhere to issued recommendations, strictly prohibiting entry into the crater area and lava flow paths. The agency also encouraged the public to stay calm and rely solely on official information from BPBD to avoid misinformation.

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The public is prohibited from entering the crater area and lava flow paths.