Starting Today, PVMBG Raises Mount Iya Status In Ende To Level III

Mount Lewotobi Laki emitting volcanic ash can be seen from Nawokote Village, Wulanggitang District, East Flores Regency, NTT, Tuesday (5/11/2024). (ANTARA)

The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) has raised the status of volcanic activity of Mount Iya in Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) from Level II (Alert) to III (Alert) starting Wednesday, November 5, 2024, at 18.00 WITA.

Head of the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources Muhammad Wafid was quoted by ANTARA as saying the increase in the status of the mountain located on the central part of Flores Island, following the increase in volcanic activity in recent days.

He explained that in monitoring from early October to November 4, 2024, significant signs of seismicity were recorded.

In this period, 28 earthquakes of harmonic tremors were recorded, 77 non-harmonic tremors, and 173 deep volcanic earthquakes.

Since August 2024, the frequency of deep volcanic earthquakes has continued to increase, indicating strong pressure due to magma movement towards the surface.

Since October 16, shallow earthquake activity has become more frequent.

"This shows magma pressure is getting stronger and could trigger an eruption at any time," said Muhammad Wafid as quoted by ANTARA, Wednesday, November 6.

The crater smoke with moderate to thick intensity was seen reaching an altitude of 300 meters from the top of the mountain.

In this connection. PVMBG urges the surrounding community to be vigilant and avoid activities around the top area of this mountain.