BPBD Lumajang Reminds Residents On The Slopes Of Mount Semeru To Beware Of Ash Rain

Photo archive: Mount Semeru erupted in mid-February 2025. (ANTARA/HO-PVMBG)

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) appealed to residents on the slopes of Mount Semeru to be aware of the rain of thin volcanic ash in line with extreme weather over the past few days.

"Today we received reports of pouring volcanic ash in Candipuro District, but it is still thin," said Head of Emergency and Logistics Division of BPBD Lumajang Yudi Cahyono as reported by ANTARA, Monday, February 17.

His party monitors the points and directions of the wind carrying the volcanic ash of Mount Semeru, because extreme weather in the form of strong winds can change, so it cannot be predicted.

BPBD Lumajang also anticipates the existence of the hydrometeorological disaster and urges the public to use masks and glasses when leaving the house to anticipate the impact of the volcanic ash rain of Mount Semeru.

"We urge the public to wear masks and glasses to protect their breathing and prevent eye irritation, even though volcanic ash has fallen slightly," he said.

Yudi said several sub-districts at the foot of Mount Semeru which may be affected by volcanic ash rain in accordance with the wind direction, namely Candipuro, Pasrujambe, Pasirian, Senduro, and Pronojiwo sub-districts.

"So far, the rain of Mount Semeru's volcanic ash has not had a significant impact on people's homes, because they continue to work as usual and wear masks when leaving their homes," he said.

Yudi said there was no distribution of masks to residents, because volcanic ash was sometimes only for a short time and would disappear when it rained in Lumajang.

"We continue to be on standby and ready to provide assistance if needed. With good coordination between the village government and the community, it is hoped that this situation can be faced with preparedness and mutual vigilance," he said.