Residents Living Near Mount Merapi Urged to Remain Alert of Volcanic Activity

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo has urged residents living around Mount Merapi to stay alert of volcanic activity following reports of Mount Semeru eruption.

"We continue to monitor Merapi and I ask everyone to be alert. Last Saturday, I received a report from the (center for) geological disaster technology research and development (BPPTKG) that the eruption that had occurred since January 4 is still ongoing," he said in Semarang on Monday.

He informed that based on observations, the growth of the lava dome on Mount Merapi has continued. Even hot cloud avalanches are still ongoing because the accumulation of magma pressure from within is still taking place, he said.

"The eruption of Mount Merapi is not over yet, so I ask everyone to be alert, especially in Yogyakarta, Magelang, and Klaten, as well as parts of Boyolali," he cautioned.

There is potential for lava avalanches and hot cloud emissions in the south and southwest area, he said adding, his administration has identified areas prone to disaster, such as Sungai Kuning, Boyong, Bedog, Krasak, Bebeng, Putih, Gendol, and Woro.

"We calculate that the avalanches can reach 3–5 kilometers, so for those who live in those areas, we ask to be prepared. All village heads must be alert. Religious leaders, community leaders, and volunteers of the Disaster Risk Reduction Forum are all on standby," he elaborated.

Pranowo said he expected that when the unexpected happens, the whistle would immediately be blown, and all residents around Mount Merapi would be asked to evacuate immediately.

"Don't take risks, we really learn from the condition and character of Mount Merapi, which is similar to Mount Semeru," he added.

Read: 3-Hour Rain in Mount Merapi; BPPTKG Warns of Possible Lava Flood

ANTARA