Eruption Alert: Mount Semeru Sends Ash Up 2 km and Pyroclastic Flow Spreads 5 km

At 10:25 p.m. local time, Mount Semeru experienced a significant eruption, generating a pyroclastic flow that extended approximately 5 km from its summit. The ash column reached heights of around 2,000 meters above the peak, equating to 5,676 meters above sea level.

Officials noted that the ash plume displayed colors from white to gray, with denser concentrations seen drifting toward the east and southeast. Seismographs recorded the eruption, indicating a maximum amplitude of 27 mm, and the event lasted for a total of 696 seconds.

Currently, the volcano maintains a Level III (Alert) status. The community is strongly implored to refrain from activities in the southeastern sector near Besuk Kobokan, remaining within a 13 km radius of the summit. Individuals should keep at least 500 meters away from the riverbanks of Besuk Kobokan due to the threat of pyroclastic and lava flows, which could potentially reach up to 17 km from the crater.

Residents must also be cautious of potential lava and pyroclastic flows in nearby rivers and valleys influenced by Mount Semeru, including Besuk Kobokan, Besuk Bang, Besuk Kembar, Besuk Sat, and the smaller tributaries connected to Besuk Kobokan. Areas situated within a five km radius of the crater are particularly hazardous due to the possibility of ejected incandescent rocks.