Mount Semeru Erupts Again, Sending Ash Clouds High and Prompting Safety Alerts

Mount Semeru, Indonesia's highest volcano, has once again showcased its powerful geological activity as it erupted early Wednesday morning, January 15, sending a towering ash column approximately 900 meters high into the atmosphere. The eruption, which occurred at 7:06 a.m. local time, was closely monitored by the Semeru Volcano Observation Post located in Sumber Wuluh Village, Candipuro District, Lumajang. According to Sigit Rian Alfian, an officer at the observation post, the eruption was marked by a whitish-gray ash plumes that drifted southeast and southward. The seismic activity in the area has been significant, with reports indicating that over the past 24 hours, 47 eruption earthquakes were recorded. These seismic events exhibited amplitudes ranging from 10 to 22 mm, with durations varying between 60 to 200 seconds. Among the seismic observations were also a cluster of avalanche earthquakes, deep volcanic tremors, and distant tectonic activities. The recent volcanic activity has prompted authorities to maintain Mount Semeru at a volcanic alert level II. This level indicates that the volcano poses a moderate threat, leading to essential safety recommendations for the surrounding communities. The Center for Volcanology Mitigation and Geological Disaster (PVMBG) has advised residents to avoid any activities in the southeast sector along Besuk Kobokan, extending 8 kilometers from the mountain's summit. Furthermore, a buffer zone of 500 meters from the riverbanks along Besuk Kobokan is advised to be kept clear due to the potential dangers posed by hot clouds and lava flows that can reach up to 13 kilometers from the peak. In addition, residents are urged to stay at least 3 kilometers away from the summit due to the risk of ejected rocks. The public must remain vigilant about the potential for hot cloud avalanches and lava flows, particularly along rivers and valleys that originate from the volcano, including those near Besuk Kobokan, Besuk Bang, Besuk Kembar, and Besuk Sat. As the eruption continues, authorities are actively monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of public safety and preparedness in the face of such natural events. With Mount Semeru's history of eruptions, the ongoing vigilance from both the observation post and local government officials remains crucial for safeguarding the lives and properties of those living in close proximity to the majestic but formidable volcano.