Mount Ibu in West Halmahera Erupts, Status Level II Alert

Mount Ibu in West Halmahera, North Maluku, remains at an alert level (Level II) due to ongoing volcanic activity. Authorities have issued a strict prohibition against any activities for residents and tourists within a 2-kilometer radius of the volcano's active crater. This measure is a precautionary step to ensure public safety.

The volcano has been experiencing frequent eruptions, with intervals ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. The ash columns produced by these eruptions have varied in height, reaching between 200 and 1000 meters above the peak. Seismographic data indicates fluctuating volcanic tremors, predominantly characterized by volcanic earthquakes.

The latest eruption was recorded on Saturday afternoon, producing an ash column approximately 800 meters high. The ash was observed to be white to gray, with moderate to thick intensity, and was drifting towards the north. The PVMBG (Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation) recommends that the public, visitors, and fishermen maintain a safe distance, extending to 3.5 km in the northern sector, away from the active crater. In case of ashfall, individuals outdoors are advised to use masks and protective eyewear.

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Mount Ibu is currently still at Level 2 alert, residents and tourists are prohibited from activities within a 2 km radius.