PVMBG: Mount Marapi Status Drops To Alert Level

The appearance of Mount Marapi which experienced an eruption from Agam Regency, West Sumatra on February 25, 2024. BETWEEN/Muhammad Zulfikar

The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) reported that the status of Mount Marapi in Agam Regency and Tanah Datar Regency fell from Level III (Alert) to Level II (Alert) as of July 1, 2024.

"Based on the results of a thorough analysis and evaluation starting July 1, 2024 at 15.00 WIB, the activity level of Mount Marapi was lowered from Level III (Alert) to Level II (Alert)," said PVMBG Head Hendra Gunawan in a written statement reported by ANTARA, Monday, July 1.

Hendra Gunawan said the decline in the status of the volcano was in line with a number of recommendations that were adjusted to the latest potential/threat threats. First, the people around the mountain, climbers/visitors/tourists so as not to enter and carry out activities within a three-kilometer radius of the activity center (Verbeek Luxury).

The second recommendation is that people who live around valleys/banks/rivers head up at the top of Mount Marapi to remain aware of the potential and threat of lava hazards or lava floods that can occur, especially during the rainy season.

If there is ash rain, the public is advised to use a mask covering the nose and mouth in order to avoid acute respiratory problems (ARI). PVMBG also asked all parties to maintain a conducive atmosphere in the community by not spreading false narratives (hoaxes), and not being provoked by unclear issues.

Based on the same report, PVMBG will continue to evaluate the periodic level of activity of Mount Marapi or if there is a significant change in activity. The level of activity and recommendations of Mount Marapi remain valid as long as the next evaluation letter/report has not been issued.

On May 11, 2024, floods of cold lava from Mount Marapi and flash floods originating from Mount Singgalang hit Agam Regency, Tanah Datar Regency and Padang Panjang City. Based on data from SAR Padang, at least 63 people died as a result of the disaster.

In fact, 10 residents in Tanah Datar Regency who were missing were suspected of being dragged by cold lava floods until the closure of the search operation on June 8, 2024, officers were unable to find them. The local government and related agencies officially stopped the search for victims after the family approved the move.