Mount Ibu Erupts in Indonesia’s North Maluku Province, Authorities Issue Warnings
Indonesia’s North Maluku Province Under Alert as Mount Ibu Erupts
Mount Ibu in Indonesia’s North Maluku province erupted on Saturday, sending an ash plume soaring 4,000 metres above the summit. The eruption, which occurred in West Halmahera district at 7:35 pm local time, lasted about three minutes and five seconds, releasing grey ash that drifted westward and glowing lava ejected up to two kilometres from the volcano’s crater.
Authorities Take Precautionary Measures
In response to the eruption, authorities have banned all public activities, including hiking, within a four-kilometre radius of the volcano and a 5.5-kilometre sector to the north of the active crater. "In anticipation of potential hazards, residents are urged to wear masks and eye protection, such as glasses," National Disaster Mitigation Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari stated in a statement on Sunday.
Volcanic Activity at Level III
The volcanic activity remains at level III, or "Alert", as the volcano’s eruptions have been fluctuating since June 2024, with some days experiencing as many as 70 eruptions. Earlier on last Friday, the volcano erupted twice, sending an ash column 3,000 metres into the sky, with ash clouds drifting south and southeast.
PVMBG Warns of Eruptions and False Information
According to the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), such eruptions are typical for Mount Ibu, given its current activity level, and they have urged the public to remain vigilant while also advising them to avoid false information or hoaxes.
Conclusion
Mount Ibu’s eruption is a reminder of the importance of vigilance in the face of natural disasters. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for authorities and the public to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all those affected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What triggered the eruption of Mount Ibu?
A: The exact cause of the eruption is still being investigated, but it is believed to be related to the volcano’s ongoing volcanic activity.
Q: What measures have been taken by authorities to respond to the eruption?
A: Authorities have banned all public activities within a four-kilometre radius of the volcano and a 5.5-kilometre sector to the north of the active crater.
Q: What is the current state of the volcano’s activity?
A: The volcanic activity remains at level III, or "Alert", with some days experiencing as many as 70 eruptions.
Q: What is the advice for residents and visitors?
A: Residents and visitors are urged to wear masks and eye protection, such as glasses, and to avoid false information or hoaxes.