Indonesia’s Semeru volcano erupts, prompting authorities to raise warning to highest level

The eruption prompted Indonesian authorities to warn residents to stay away from the eruption area.

“People are advised not to carry out activities and stay away from the southeastern sector area along Besuk Kobokan, as far as 13 km from the peak (the eruption center). The public is also prohibited from doing activities within a 5 km radius of the crater/top of Mount Semeru because it is prone to the danger of throwing stones,” the country’s National Agency for Disaster Countermeasure (BNPB) said.

The Mount Semeru volcano is one of more than 100 active volcanoes in Indonesia.

On 4 December 2021, Semeru volcano had its largest eruption in recent history and produced a hot cloud avalanche with volcanic materials and heavy ashfall.

The eruption began after heavy precipitation caused the collapse of the lava dome at the summit. Pyroclastic flows and lahars damaged at least 5,205 homes and several public buildings.

At least 69 people died, 104 more were injured, while more than five remain missing. (ILKHA)