Indonesia's Mount Ibu Erupts Volcanic Ash 5 Kilometers High

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Center (PVMBG) recorded eruptive activity that produced an ash column five kilometers high from the peak of Mount Ibu located in northwest of Halmahera Island, North Maluku.

Head of PVMBG Hendra Gunawan stated in Jakarta, Monday, May 13, 2024, that the eruption occurred at 9:12 a.m. local time.

"The sound of booming and rumbling could be heard as far as the Mount Ibu observation post," he remarked.

Gunawan stated that the five-kilometer-high ash column appeared gray to black in color, with a thick intensity leaning towards the west.

The eruption was recorded via a seismogram with a maximum amplitude of 28 millimeters and a temporary duration of five minutes and six seconds. The eruption was still ongoing at the time of the report being made.

The PVMBG publishes the Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) color that is used as a color code to warn early about volcanic eruptions for aviation safety. The VONA color code consists of red, orange, yellow, and green.

"VONA color of Mount Ibu was changed from orange to red," Gunawan stated.

Since May 8, 2024, Mount Ibu, with a height of 1,325 meters above sea level, has been on alert status, or level III.

The PVMBG has increased the status of a strato-type volcano due to a rise in volcanic activity and seismicity.

The PVMBG recommends residents around Mount Ibu to not climb and approach the mountain within a radius of three kilometers and a sectoral extension of five kilometers towards the crater opening in the northern part of the active crater.

If ash falls, people conducting outdoor activities are advised to wear mask to cover their nose and mouth and goggles to protect the eyes.

"All parties must maintain a conducive situation in society, not spread false narratives, and not be provoked by issues whose source is unclear. The public must always follow directions from the regional government," Gunawan concluded.

ANTARA

Editor's Choice: Forbes' List of Indonesia's 10 Richest People in 2024

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News