Monday Morning, Volcanic Activity Of Mount Merapi Is Still High

Illustration of the eruption of Mount Merapi (ANTARA)

YOGYAKARTA - Mount Merapi's volcanic activity is still quite high. This is evident from 15 lava avalanches to the southwest. Based on a report from the Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development Center (BPPTKG), this lava avalanche is moving towards the Bebeng River with a maximum sliding distance of 1,500 meters.

"15 lava avalanches were observed to the southwest (Kali Bebeng) with a maximum sliding distance of 1,500 meters," said Head of BPPTKG Agus Budi Santosa in a statement on Monday, October 7.

During the observation period on Monday, from 00.00 to 06.00 WIB, the weather around Merapi tends to be cloudy with weak winds blowing towards the east. The air temperature ranges from 18.2 celsius to 20 celsius with a high humidity level, reaching 96%. Mount Merapi is clearly visible even though it is occasionally covered in thin fog, while crater smoke is not observed.

In terms of seismicity, there were 26 earthquake avalanches with amplitudes varying from 3 to 18 mm and a duration of 58.6 to 147.2 seconds. Although seismic activity is quite significant, there has been no explosive eruption.

Currently, Mount Merapi is at level III or alert. The anticipated hazard potential includes lava avalanches and hot clouds in the south-southwest sector, especially in the Boyong River with a maximum distance of 5 kilometers, as well as the Bedog, Krasak, and Bebeng rivers as far as 7 kilometers. In the southeast sector, the Woro River is estimated to have the potential to be affected up to 3 kilometers, and the Gendol River as far as 5 kilometers.

In addition, explosive eruptions can cause the ejection of volcanic material that has the potential to reach a radius of up to 3 kilometers from the peak of Merapi.

"The public is advised to remain vigilant and not carry out any activities in the danger zone. Additional potential hazards in the form of lava and hot clouds of avalanches also need to be watched out for, especially when it rains around the mountain area," he added.

BPPTKG also reminded that the supply of magma is still ongoing, which can trigger hot clouds. If there is a significant change in volcanic activity, the status of Mount Merapi will be reviewed immediately.

The community around Mount Merapi is advised to follow the development of information from official sources and anticipate disturbances caused by volcanic ash.