Mount Semeru Erupts Ten Times, Raising Alarms and Safety Concerns in East Java

Mount Semeru, East Java's most prominent volcano, erupted ten times in a dramatic display of natural power on January 2, 2025, sending an ash plume soaring 1,200 meters above its summit, reaching an altitude of 4,876 meters above sea level. The volcanic activity has raised concerns among local authorities and residents, as the ash, observed to be a mix of white and gray, was emitted with moderate intensity directed towards the north. According to Liswanto, an officer at the Semeru Volcano Observation Post (PGA) in Lumajang, the eruptions were documented by seismographs located in Sumber Wuluh Village. The flurry of activity began in the early hours of the morning and continued into the afternoon, with particularly intense eruptions occurring at various times, notably at 00:57, 02:41, and multiple times in the late morning. The most significant activity took place between 11:00 and 12:00, during which four eruptions were recorded in less than an hour. Unfortunately, thick cloud cover obstructed visual verification of these eruptions, although the seismic data provided a clear indication of the volcano's unrest. Mount Semeru, currently on Alert Level II (Waspada), has been exhibiting sustained seismic activity in the days leading up to the eruptions. In a 24-hour period prior to Thursday's events, monitoring stations recorded a total of 34 eruption earthquakes, alongside various other seismic activities including avalanche and distant tectonic earthquakes. The amplitudes of these quakes ranged widely, indicating a complex and active volcanic system. In light of the heightened volcanic activity, the Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG) has issued crucial safety recommendations for local residents. The agency has advised against any activities within an 8 km radius of the eruption epicenter, particularly in the southeast sector along Besuk Kobokan, where the risk of hot clouds and lava flows is significant. Furthermore, the public is urged to maintain a safe distance from riverbanks along Besuk Kobokan, as these areas could be affected by volcanic debris and flows extending up to 13 km from the peak. Residents are also cautioned to stay clear of a 3 km zone around the crater due to the danger posed by ejected incandescent rocks. The PVMBG emphasizes the importance of vigilance, urging the community to heed warnings regarding potential hot clouds, lava avalanches, and river flows that could be impacted by volcanic activity. As the situation develops, local authorities will continue to monitor Mount Semeru closely, and residents are encouraged to stay informed about the volcano’s status and adhere to recommendations for their safety. With nature's unpredictability on display, the community remains alert and prepared for any further eruptions as the monitoring continues.