Mount Merapi Exhibits Increased Activity, BNPB Urges Heightened Vigilance

Manawir Gojali
Editor Team

Mount Merapi, one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes, has displayed a notable uptick in seismic and visual indicators, prompting the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) to issue a stern advisory for nearby communities on Monday.

According to the latest observations from the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), the volcano's activity has intensified over the past week, with a surge in the number of volcanic earthquakes and the emission of dense ash plumes. On Sunday alone, seismic detectors recorded 45 instances of deep volcanic tremors, a sharp rise from the previous days' averages.

Visual monitoring from the Merapi Volcano Observatory Post in Balerante, Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region, confirmed the ejection of grayish-white smoke reaching heights of up to 500 meters above the crater summit, accompanied by a rumbling sound audible from several kilometers away.

PVMBG volcanologist Adi Ariyanto explained that these developments signal an escalation in magma movement beneath the surface, potentially leading to more frequent eruptions of hot material. "The volcano's alert status remains at Level III, but we are closely monitoring for any signs of further intensification," Ariyanto stated during a press briefing. He emphasized that while no immediate large-scale eruption is forecasted, the rising activity necessitates proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.

In response, BNPB Head Suharyanto directed local authorities in Central Java and Yogyakarta provinces to reinforce evacuation protocols and distribute essential supplies to residents within the 3-5 kilometer exclusion zone around the crater.

"We urge the public to adhere strictly to the established safety radius and avoid any unauthorized approaches to the volcano's slopes," Suharyanto warned, highlighting the risks of sudden lahar flows during the ongoing rainy season. Emergency response teams have been placed on high alert, with simulation drills scheduled for the coming days to ensure swift action if conditions worsen.

Mount Merapi, situated on the border between Central Java's Magelang Regency and Yogyakarta's Sleman Regency, has a history of devastating eruptions, most notably the 2010 event that claimed over 350 lives and displaced tens of thousands. The current advisory serves as a reminder of the volcano's unpredictable nature, underscoring the importance of sustained community preparedness in this seismically active region.

Authorities continue to advise against tourism or agricultural activities near the peak, calling for public cooperation to mitigate potential hazards. Updates will be provided as new data emerges from ongoing surveillance efforts.