Maluku, Indonesia Sentinel — Mount Ibu, located in West Halmahera Regency, North Maluku Province, erupted on Saturday, January 11, 2025, releasing a towering ash column 4,000 meters above its peak. The eruption, which lasted approximately 3 minutes and 5 seconds, occurred at 7:35 p.m. local time.
According to Abdul Muhari, Head of the Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Center at Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), the volcanic ash column was observed to be gray and inclined westward. In addition to the ash, incandescent lava was expelled from the crater, traveling up to 2 kilometers from the eruption center.
Current Volcanic Status
The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) has maintained Mount Ibu’s volcanic activity status at Level III, or “alert,” since June 21, 2024. This status indicates high volcanic activity and the potential for further eruptions.
Given the current conditions, PVMBG has issued strict safety recommendations:
- No public activities, including hiking, are permitted within a 4-kilometer radius of the volcano.
- In certain sectors, particularly 5.5 kilometers north of the active crater, access is also restricted due to the heightened risk of pyroclastic flows and lava ejection.
Previous Eruptions
Just a day prior, on Friday, January 10, Mount Ibu experienced two eruptions, producing ash columns that rose up to 3,000 meters. These eruptions were recorded at 12:35 p.m. and 6:20 p.m. local time, with the ash dispersing predominantly toward the south and southeast.
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Mount Ibu’s Volcanic Activity
Mount Ibu is one of Indonesia’s many active volcanoes, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire. Its eruptions are not uncommon, as the archipelago is home to 127 active volcanoes. Regular monitoring by PVMBG ensures timely updates and preventive measures to safeguard nearby communities.
While the latest eruptions have not resulted in significant casualties or damage, authorities are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines. Disaster preparedness remains a top priority for local authorities, as volcanic activity in the region continues to pose risks to surrounding areas.
(Becky)
