Mount Semeru Erupts, Spewing Volcanic Ash 1 Kilometer High

Mount Semeru, Indonesia's tallest volcano, erupted early Wednesday, sending a column of volcanic ash approximately 1 kilometer above its summit. The eruption, recorded around 4:19 AM local time, resulted in thin ash rain falling over several areas within Lumajang Regency.

The Semeru Volcano Observatory Post reported that the ash column was white to gray, with thick intensity, drifting towards the northeast. Seismographs registered the eruption with a maximum amplitude of 22 mm and a duration of 204 seconds. Over the preceding six hours, 12 eruption/explosion tremors and seven avalanche tremors were recorded, alongside other seismic activities.

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Eruption recorded on seismograph with maximum amplitude 22 mm and duration 204 seconds.

Authorities have maintained the volcano's status at Level III (Siaga or Alert). The potential for pyroclastic flows (hot clouds) and lava flows remains a concern. Residents in Lumajang have been advised to wear masks when using two-wheeled vehicles due to the volcanic dust.

Recommendations from the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) include avoiding activity within a 13-kilometer radius of Besuk Kobokan in the southeast sector. Additionally, people should stay at least 500 meters from riverbanks along Besuk Kobokan due to the risk of hot clouds and lava flows extending up to 17 kilometers from the summit. Activity within a 5-kilometer radius of the crater is also prohibited due to the danger of volcanic bombs.

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We suggest using masks for two-wheeled vehicle users.